The Jerry Eze Foundation has injected fresh hope into Nigeria’s business community after awarding N1 billion in grants to 240 small and micro enterprises across the country. Each selected entrepreneur received $3,000 during a major ceremony held at Transcorp Hilton in Abuja.
The initiative marks one of the largest private support programmes for grassroots entrepreneurs in Nigeria this year. It also highlights the growing role of philanthropy in driving economic growth, job creation and business expansion.
According to a statement released by the foundation, the grants aim to help business owners start new ventures, scale existing operations and transform struggling enterprises into stronger brands.
The selection process drew strong nationwide interest. More than 16,000 people registered through the grant portal. Out of that number, 9,668 applicants completed the process and met the requirements. After an independent review managed by KPMG, 240 entrepreneurs emerged as final beneficiaries.
The programme focused on three sectors considered vital to Nigeria’s future economy: agriculture and agribusiness, manufacturing, and technology with digital services. These industries continue to attract strong investor attention because they create jobs quickly and support long-term development.
Former Education Minister Dr Oby Ezekwesili urged the winners to think bigger and build businesses that solve real African problems. She said the continent needs bold entrepreneurs ready to grow with purpose and deliver impact at scale.
She challenged beneficiaries to avoid staying small, adding that the resources and platform now available to them should translate into measurable growth.
Business leader Dr Ibukun Awosika praised the programme and described it as a bridge between potential and progress. She encouraged recipients to collaborate, learn from experienced people and build lasting institutions rather than short-term ventures.
Founder of the foundation, Pastor Jerry Eze, said his passion for giving came from lessons taught by his late mother. He recalled how she always found a way to help others, even during difficult times.
He also charged beneficiaries to focus on creating value in their communities. According to him, many of the recipients will return next year with testimonies of major business growth.
The event attracted leading names from government, finance, faith and entertainment. Among attendees were Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, EFCC Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede, UBA Group Managing Director Oliver Alawuba, Flutterwave CEO Olugbenga Agboola, businessman Obi Cubana and several public figures.
Religious leaders including Pastor Poju Oyemade and Apostle Emmanuel Iren also attended, alongside entertainment personalities such as Richard Mofe-Damijo, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, Tonto Dikeh, Timi Dakolo and Bucci Franklin.
The grant programme comes at a crucial time for many Nigerian businesses facing inflation, currency pressure and rising operating costs. As a result, direct financial support of this scale could help many small enterprises survive, expand and employ more people.
