The Youth Economic Intervention & De-Radicalisation Program (YEIDEP) is a important federal initiative to empower youth in Nigeria. It was established in 2024, under the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and with the support of private and public partners. The program focuses on helping Nigerian young people aged between 18 and 35 through entrepreneurial training, federal grants and mentorship.
YEIDEP was established to combat youth unemployment, insecurity and radicalisation, by providing young Nigerians with the tools to make their lives more prosperous and the opportunity to succeed. It assists in job creation as well as business development and social integration through the acquisition of skills and financial support throughout all the 36 states as well as in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
What Is the Program?
YEIDEP is a federal youth empowerment program and a social reform program created to improve the resilience of Nigerian young people. Its goal is to decrease youth unemployment as well as increase national security by helping vulnerable people become self-sufficient entrepreneurs.
The program combines business development and capacity building as well as psychosocial assistance. Beneficiaries receive business education as well as financial assistance and guidance to help them establish or grow small businesses. It also encourages peacebuilding and social inclusion through engagement with the community and de-radicalization training sessions.
YEIDEP is based on three parts:
- Youth Economic Intervention (YEI): Focuses on grants, enterprise training, and the creation of jobs.
- Youth De-Radicalization and Rehabilitation The program targets youth affected by extremism or conflict through the reorientation process, vocational skills, and psychological counseling.
- Youth Reintegration and Monitoring Monitors the progress of youth and offers ongoing mentorship to ensure sustainable development.
Through combining economic empowerment and the building of peace, YEIDEP helps bridge the gap between the reduction of poverty and stabilization of the social sphere in Nigeria.
Funding & Coverage
Funding amounts:
- Subsidies range from N50,000 to N500,000 for youth entrepreneurs who meet the eligibility requirements.
- Credit: May be introduced in the future; however, there is no information on current rates of interest.
- Help services, free enterprise growth classes, and mentoring sessions are available to any successful applicants.
Coverage/ target groups:
- Nigerian citizens between 18 and 35.
- Young people with business ideas that are viable or small-scale businesses that are already in operation.
- These individuals may have been impacted by social unrest or conflict.
- The sectors covered are agriculture, ICT, renewable energy, fashion, creative industries, retail, and light manufacturing.
- The program is available in every state and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). It is delivered via local training centers and the online modules for learning.
Eligibility
To be eligible for YEIDEP, the applicants must:
- You must be a Nigerian citizen aged between 18 and 35.
- You must have an authentic, valid National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN).
- Have a viable business plan or an existing micro-enterprise.
- Participate in the mentorship and training program.
- Be a registered or verified company (preferred but not required).
- Keep an active account with an approved financial institution.
How to Apply
- Go to the official YEIDEP website and click “Apply Now.”
- Create an account by entering an email address. your NIN and BVN.
- Select the appropriate application track: entrepreneurship, skill development, or rehabilitation assistance.
- Complete all the required information, including company information as well as the sector and state of residence.
- Please upload the necessary documents to support your application and complete the form.
- Wait for confirmation via email or SMS to verify and screen.
- Take part in any required physical or online training.
- Successful candidates who have been verified will be awarded a grant or support package directly from partner banks.
Required Documents
- A valid means of identification (National ID, passport, driver’s license)
- National Identification Number (NIN)
- Bank Verification Number (BVN)
- Passport photo
- A proof of residence or a utility bill
- Certificate of registration for business (if required)
- Summary of a business plan or proposal
- A proof of bank account (preferably at an authorized partner bank)
Timelines
- Application phase The application phase is open periodically dependent on the batch.
- Screening and verification: Conducted within 2-4 weeks following the closing of applications.
- Mentorship and training: Takes place within one month of being shortlisted.
- Approval and disbursement: Successful applicants receive funds within 30 to 45 days of the training.
- Monitoring evaluation post-funding to ensure continuity of business and impact.
Common Challenges or Warnings
- Avoid fake sites: Only apply through the official YEIDEP website. Avoid websites that offer fees from third parties.
- Documentation that is incomplete: Missing NIN, BBN, or unclear business proposals could delay approval.
- Warnings of scams None of this procedure requires the payment of a fee or any bribes. Report any suspicious activity to the official channels.
- Disbursement delays: Due to the high number of applications, the funds may take a while to reach recipients.
- Training in contrast to the funding issue: All applicants must be able to complete their training before financial assistance is given.
Summary Table
| Component | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Target Age Group | 18–35 years |
| Grant Amount | ₦50,000 – ₦500,000 |
| Priority Sectors | Agriculture, ICT, Fashion, Energy, Creative Industries |
| Programme Type | Training + Grant + De-radicalisation |
| Application Mode | Online via official portal |
| Partner Banks | Selected national financial institutions |
| Geographic Coverage | All 36 states + FCT |
| Primary Goal | Youth empowerment and social reintegration |
FAQs
- What is YEIDEP?
It is a national youth empowerment and de-radicalisation programme designed to promote entrepreneurship and social stability in Nigeria. - Who can apply?
Nigerian youth aged 18–35 who are unemployed, self-employed, or seeking to start a business. - How much funding can I get?
Grants range from ₦50,000 to ₦500,000 depending on your category and proposal. - Is it a loan or grant?
Current support is provided as a non-repayable grant; future phases may include low-interest loans. - Do I need to pay to apply?
No, the application is completely free. Any request for payment is fraudulent. - What sectors qualify?
Agriculture, ICT, renewable energy, fashion, creative arts, and small-scale manufacturing. - How long does it take to receive funding?
Typically within 30–45 days after training and verification. - Can I reapply if I’m not selected?
Yes, unselected applicants can reapply during the next registration cycle. - Are physically challenged youth eligible?
Yes, YEIDEP is inclusive and encourages applications from all qualified individuals. - How does YEIDEP reduce radicalisation?
By providing economic opportunities and positive engagement that replace crime or violence with entrepreneurship. - Is it nationwide?
Yes, it covers all 36 states and the FCT. - What is the main benefit?
Sustainable income generation, self-employment, and community peacebuilding.
Conclusion
The Youth Employment and Development Programme is an innovative federal initiative that aims to transform Nigeria’s young people into a resource for productivity and peace. It offers grants, education, and reorientation to assist young people in establishing viable livelihoods and lessen the dependence on unreliable income sources.
If you’re a young Nigerian person with a dream and a viable business concept, YEIDEP provides the tools to help you grow. Keep an eye out for announcements that are official. Prepare your documents in advance and then apply once the registration period begins.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not any financial advice, nor does it imply endorsement of any program. Always check the official government portal prior to applying.