The Federal Government of Nigeria has opened applications for its Youth Empowerment Initiative for Climate Action 2026, a programme designed to equip young Nigerians with skills, tools, and seed support to create jobs, transform waste into marketable eco-friendly products, and participate in Nigeria’s emerging circular economy.
This initiative brings youth to the center of environmental transformation by helping them build climate-responsive ventures that address waste challenges while generating sustainable income.
👉 Apply here: https://wastetowealth.fmyd.gov.ng/#/register
Nigeria faces growing waste management and environmental pressure in cities and rural areas alike. Traditional waste systems struggle to keep pace with population growth and urbanization, leaving fertile ground for innovation and enterprise.
The Youth Empowerment Initiative for Climate Action seeks to turn this challenge into an economic opportunity for young people by:
- Supporting youth-led innovations in waste reduction, recycling, and upcycling;
- Creating climate-smart jobs because of environmental demand;
- Promoting sustainable consumption and circular-economy models;
- Reducing environmental degradation while boosting local livelihoods.
This initiative aligns with global climate priorities and Nigeria’s climate action commitments, making it a timely opportunity for climate-minded youth.
What the Initiative Offers (Benefits)
Skills & Training
Participants receive technical training in waste management, circular economy practices, and climate-adapted business skills.
Startup Support
Access to resources that help youth translate waste-to-wealth ideas into startup ventures, including business development and production skills.
Seed Funding Opportunities
Selected participants may become eligible for seed capital or support pathways to kick-start or grow their waste-to-value businesses.
Job Creation & Income Pathways
By transforming waste into eco-friendly products, participants build market-ready offerings that create jobs and generate income.
Engagement in National Climate Goals
Through this programme, youth become part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to improve climate resilience, sustainable development, and environmental stewardship.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- Young Nigerians who are ready to participate in climate action and waste-to-wealth ventures.
- Applicants must have a passion for sustainability, climate solutions, or waste transformation.
- The initiative encourages participation from school leavers, young innovators, early-stage entrepreneurs, and climate advocates.
- No stringent educational or business requirements are listed — innovators with ideas or startups in waste management, upcycling, recycling, or circular products are encouraged to apply.
- Access to the internet is required to complete the online registration.
This initiative is broad and inclusive, ensuring youth from diverse backgrounds can participate.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Visit the official registration portal:
👉 https://wastetowealth.fmyd.gov.ng/#/register - Complete the online registration form with accurate details. This will include personal information, contact details, and your idea/interest in waste-to-wealth or climate action.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to submit your application.
- After submission, applicants will be contacted through official channels with updates on next steps, training, or selection pathways.
Applications are processed online — there is no paper submission required.
Tips for Application
- Clarify your idea — even if you are still early in development, describe your concept clearly and how it can turn waste into value.
- Highlight impact — explain the environmental or economic benefit of your idea or proposed solution.
- Show readiness to learn — this initiative supports growth; demonstrating eagerness to adopt training can strengthen your application.
- Include community linkage — connecting your idea to a local waste problem or opportunity shows relevance and potential for real impact.
