The Federal Government’s Youth Economic Intervention & De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP) has reopened its 2025 registration portal, offering one-time business grants and entrepreneurship support to eligible Nigerian youths. The scheme, run under the auspices of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development aims to convert job seekers into job creators by combining finance, training and mentorship to strengthen small businesses across priority sectors. The official portal and programme information are available on the YEIDEP website.
What the grant covers
Selected beneficiaries will receive non-repayable grants that range from ₦50,000 up to ₦500,000 depending on the project, business stage and assessment outcome. Beyond cash, YEIDEP provides entrepreneurship training, mentorship and market linkage support intended to improve beneficiaries’ capacity to scale and sustain their ventures. The scheme targets sectors with strong job-creation potential, such as agriculture, ICT/technology, creative & fashion industries, entertainment, sports and renewable energy.
Who is eligible?
To be considered, applicants must be Nigerian citizens aged 18–35 with a viable business or a clear business plan in one of the approved sectors. Standard identity and verification requirements include a valid National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN). The programme also lists partnering banks where beneficiaries may be required to have accounts, reports name banks such as Lotus, Keystone and Fidelity, so applicants should read the portal guidance carefully before applying.
Why YEIDEP matters
YEIDEP aims to tackle youth unemployment and reduce the lure of violence or criminal activity by offering productive livelihoods. By combining funding with training and mentorship, the programme focuses on longer-term enterprise development rather than short-term handouts. This approach is designed to generate ripple effects in communities through job creation and local supply chains. The Federal Ministry underscores the programme’s role in national security, poverty reduction and economic inclusion.
How to apply step- by-step
1. Visit the official YEIDEP portal: go to yeidep.org. This is the primary registration and information source, use only the official portal to avoid scams.
2. Read the eligibility and FAQ pages before starting: ensure you meet age, identity and documentation requirements (NIN, BVN, valid phone number, bank account where required).
3. Prepare your application materials: short business description, what you will use the grant for, projected budget, and any supporting documents (ID, BVN slip, evidence of business activity if available). Keep answers concise and realistic.
4. Complete the online registration form: choose your state, sector (e.g., agriculture, ICT, creative), and fill in contact and biometrics fields as required. Double-check all entries for accuracy.
5. Submit and monitor your application: after submission, keep the login details and follow the portal or the programme’s social media for status updates and official announcements. Official channels will provide timelines for selection, training and disbursement.
Important safety notes & tips:
Application is free. YEIDEP does not charge an application fee, beware anyone asking for money to “guarantee” access. Official announcements and portals will state that registration is free.
Use only the official portal and official social accounts (listed on yeidep.org) for updates. Cross-check major announcements with reputable outlets that have covered the reopening.
Be realistic and accurate. Provide truthful business details; false or inflated claims may lead to disqualification. Keep receipts, proof of business activity and contactable referees where possible.
Keep records. Save confirmation emails, screenshots of submissions and any reference numbers given after registration.
YEIDEP presents a practical opportunity for enterprising young Nigerians to access seed finance, structured training and ongoing mentorship. If you meet the eligibility criteria and can demonstrate a viable plan, registering on the official portal is the first solid step toward accessing support. For the most reliable information and to apply, head to yeidep.org and follow the programme’s official updates.
