Ten young entrepreneurs from across the Niger Delta have received multi-million-naira business grants at the 5th Niger Delta Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Summit held on Tuesday in Yenagoa.The grants, awarded to enterprises in fashion design, agro-processing and other value chains, were the major highlight of the one-day summit organised by the Niger Delta Young Professionals (NDYP) under the theme: “Enhancing the Role of MSMEs as Drivers of Sustainable Growth and Innovation.”
Convener of the summit and NDYP founder, Mr. Moses Siloko Siasia, said the organisation has supported dozens of young business owners over the years, noting that about 70 per cent of past beneficiaries have reported significant business growth.Speaking at the opening ceremony at PEE’S HUB Event Place, Siasia urged youths in the region to stay committed to personal and professional growth despite prevailing economic and social challenges.Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Nimibofa Ayawei, encouraged participants to “work hard and smart” to excel in business.“
There is no contentment in business. At every level, there are other levels to explore,” Governor Diri said, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and MSME development. He also announced plans to train more entrepreneurs who will, in turn, mentor upcoming business owners.The governor applauded Siasia and the NDYP for sustaining the annual summit, pledging continued government support.Industry leaders such as George Omararo, Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, Rt. Hon. Tonye Isenah, Josephine Itonyo and Ayodeji Sotirin advised participants to embrace technology for scaling their businesses and to prioritise integrity to attract investors and build customer trust.
A panel session featuring young founders — including Harriet Edide, Siloko Pereowei Prince, Bruce Lucas, David Osadolor, Ekemini Udo and Blessing Asokomeh — explored challenges such as regulatory hurdles, infrastructure gaps and the increasing relevance of digital commerce in the Niger Delta.The summit also featured intensive boot camps on product design, financial modelling, pitch preparation and marketing, with facilitators offering personalised mentoring.Beneficiaries praised the initiative for its impact. Fashion entrepreneur Lawson Ebimene described the training as “a game changer” that transformed her pricing strategy, while agro-processor Livingston Charles said the sessions exposed him to export opportunities and sustainable growth techniques.Organisers reaffirmed their commitment to expanding programmes that promote youth entrepreneurship and economic inclusion across the Niger Delta.
