The Unusual Praise Team has announced plans to provide seed funding to at least 100 Nigerian entrepreneurs during its 2024 events. These funds will be distributed at two major Unusual Praise gatherings, scheduled for November 8 in Onitsha and December 13 in Lagos.
Launched in 2018, the Unusual Entrepreneur Programme seeks to alleviate poverty by empowering budding entrepreneurs. Over the past six years, 610 entrepreneurs have benefited from this initiative. According to Mrs. Theresa Onwuka, Chairperson of Unusual Praise, 109 individuals were supported in 2023, and this seventh round of funding will further strengthen the financial stability of the beneficiaries, enabling them to thrive while contributing to their communities.
“The funding helps these entrepreneurs lead more stable lives while serving God and their communities,” Onwuka said.
Monsignor Paschal Nwaezeapu, Episcopal Vicar of the Lekki Region and Parish Priest of the Catholic Church of Divine Mercy—where Unusual Praise originated—explained that the program reflects the church’s commitment to evangelism and improving the lives of individuals.
“This initiative connects people to God while addressing their earthly needs,” Nwaezeapu remarked. He also highlighted the importance of fundraising to sustain the program, noting that friends and well-wishers have been instrumental in sponsoring the events and empowering entrepreneurs.
Mrs. Augustina Igbokwe, Chairperson of Unusual Praise Onitsha, expressed gratitude for the continuous support from donors, which has kept the program resilient for over 15 years. She emphasized that Unusual Praise serves a dual mission—bringing people to Christ and helping them live more productive, financially independent lives.
“Our goal is to win souls for Christ while lifting people out of poverty, just as Jesus did,” Igbokwe said. The economic aspect of the program, particularly the Unusual Entrepreneur initiative, continues to provide opportunities for Nigerian business owners to grow and succeed.
With its continued focus on faith and economic empowerment, the Unusual Praise events promise to offer both spiritual and financial support to countless Nigerians in 2024.
