The 2024 Numo Farms Youth Empowerment Grant, a transformative initiative by Senator Athan Achonu, founder of Numo Farms Limited, marked a significant milestone in youth development in Mbano. Concluding at the Mbano Youth Summit on November 9, 2024, the ₦10 million grant empowered 30 youths with financial support to nurture innovation, entrepreneurship, education tuition and sustainable growth in their communities.
The grant targeted six critical categories: Entrepreneurship & Business Startups, Educational & Skill Development, Innovation & Technology, Agriculture & Food Security, Creative & Cultural Industries, and Food Packaging for Export. These categories were carefully designed to foster skills and support ventures that would drive economic transformation in Mbano.
Applicants were subjected to a thorough selection process, including proposal reviews and live recorded pitch sessions. The judging panel, consisting of industry experts like Ogechukwu Uzoekwe (Tony Elumelu Foundation Alumni), Gabriel Nwachukwu (SME Development Manager), and Mr Michael Onyedikachi, MD/CEO, Numo Microfinance Bank, evaluated applications based on innovation, feasibility, replicability and community impact.
Among the successful applicants, five were from Umunumo, Ehime Mbano, showcasing exceptional talent and dedication. Beneficiaries like Ubah Chibueze (Catfish and Garri Processing), Juliet Uwaoma from Umueze (Palm Oil Processing), and Ogoke Casmir from Umuokiri (Piggery Farming) received ₦500,000 each to expand their businesses, while Onyeahialam Ozoigbondu (Umuchoke) was awarded ₦300,000 for his comedy and creative ventures. Ogueri Chiamaka, a university student from Eze Na Obom also recieved tuition support of ₦50,000 to support her tuition. These awardees from Umunumo are expected to be pilot role models of the Numo Farms Youth Empowerment Entrepreneurship Grant.
Building on the success of the 2024 grant, Senator Athan Achonu has announced a bold plan to launch a new ₦20 million grant exclusively for Umunumo youths in 2025. This upcoming initiative is expected to provide even greater opportunities for skill development, entrepreneurship, and community transformation, further solidifying his vision for sustainable rural development.
This landmark initiative syncs with Senator Achonu’s new year message published January 1. He said “…to our vibrant youth, the heartbeat of our future, I say this- do not let challenges define you, but let your dreams and resilience redefine the possibilities before us. Your energy, innovation, and courage are the foundation of a brighter tomorrow. We see you, we hear you, and we are committed to creating opportunities that empower you to thrive. Together, we will champion progress in education, healthcare, security, and economic prosperity.”
According to Senator Achonu, “The future of Mbano and indeed every community rests on the shoulders of its youth. This grant is not just financial support but an investment in a sustainable and prosperous tomorrow.”
During a meeting with some youth leaders early this year, he urged the youth to take advantage of these opportunities to drive meaningful change and reduce unemployment in rural areas. He also emphasised that the grant will go to only hardworking youth with genuine vision for entrepreneurship.
Senator Achonu is known for his Legacy of entrepreneurship, leadership and development. His vision for youth empowerment is deeply rooted in his legacy of service and rural development. Inspired by his late father, Chief T.E.O. Achonu, MFR, who served as Chairman of the Old Mbano Division and made significant contributions to education and healthcare, Senator Achonu continues to invest in initiatives that address rural challenges such as unemployment, insecurity, and rural-urban migration. Numo Farms situated in Umunumo is a testimony to his love for his people.
The impact of the Numo Farms Youth Empowerment Grant is already visible, with beneficiaries pledging to use their grants to expand their businesses, pursue education, and create jobs for others. The grant scheme is more than financial support; it is a strategic investment in the future of Umunumo, Mbano, Okigwe zone and beyond.
As Senator Achonu prepares to launch the ₦20 million Umunumo Youth Grant in 2025, the message is clear—his commitment to youth and community development is unwavering, and the best is yet to come.
Chibuikem Diala arpa
Project Coordinator, Numo Farms Youth Empowerment Grant Scheme