The Nigerian government is set to introduce a youth unemployment benefits scheme aimed at cushioning the effects of joblessness among young Nigerians, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has disclosed. The announcement came during a town hall meeting of the Renewed Hope Partners (RHP) held in Bende, Abia State.
At the event, Kalu also unveiled a N1 billion support package targeted at 2,000 small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) across the state. The initiative is part of broader social protection programmes designed to address economic hardship and stimulate local business growth.
Speaking to constituents, Kalu said, “There are several other programmes in the pipeline, including the unemployment benefits scheme soon to be launched by the Nigerian government to cater to our unemployed youth. Your legislature is working. Your government is working. We are building a legacy for our children.”
He explained that the new SME support package would provide approximately N500,000 to each enterprise, with implementation in partnership with financial institutions including the Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), and the Nigeria Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP). He added that the agencies are expected to match the fund to maximize impact.
The Deputy Speaker also highlighted his past interventions, noting that about six months ago, he provided N500 million through the RHP to support businesses in Abia State. The new N1 billion empowerment package will cover all 17 local government areas in the state, targeting entrepreneurs across diverse sectors.
“The goal is to stimulate economic development and strengthen local productivity. Each business will receive the initial funding, and additional support from partner financial institutions will help them scale,” Kalu said.
During the town hall, Kalu distributed trailer loads of rice, other food items, and N100 million in cash to over 100 churches, support groups, and community organisations as part of ongoing social support efforts.
Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency, also highlighted his legislative performance over the past two years, including sponsoring 127 bills covering governance, inclusion, infrastructure, security, and economic reforms. He noted that over 50 constituency projects have been executed or are ongoing in Bende, ranging from schools and ICT centres to health facilities, roads, water projects, agricultural processing centres, and electricity restoration.
He further emphasized that over 150 constituents have benefited from employment facilitation, scholarships, and overseas training, while about 1,600 individuals have accessed grants under the Benjamin Kalu initiative.
On the government’s economic reforms, Kalu praised measures including fiscal and tax reforms, power sector improvements, social protection initiatives, and efforts to strengthen security and food supply. He urged citizens to remain patient and continue supporting government programmes.
“We must acknowledge the Nigerian government for stabilizing the economy and creating the framework for these social and economic interventions. Stability at the centre allows the legislature and government to work effectively for the people,” he said.
The town hall reinforced the government’s commitment to youth employment, SME growth, and inclusive development, signaling an expanded focus on social protection and economic empowerment in Abia State.
