Abuja Youth Talent Hunt empowers young entrepreneurs with skills, mentorship, and ₦6m prizes, focusing on IT, agriculture, and creative enterprise

Abuja Youth Talent Hunt has officially kicked off, setting a new standard for youth empowerment in the Federal Capital Territory.

Also read: Abuja launches ₦6m contest to spotlight young entrepreneurial talent

Unlike typical interventions that rely on handouts, the programme emphasizes practical skills, mentorship, and long-term opportunities for young entrepreneurs.

At the opening ceremony on Wednesday, Ambassador Dr. Maureen Tamuno, Group Managing Director of Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL), reaffirmed the company’s commitment to nurturing talent through capacity building rather than giveaways.

“This is not just about competition, but about opportunity to showcase ideas that can be transformed into impactful businesses,” Dr. Tamuno said. “At AICL, we don’t just give the fish; we teach people how to fish.”

Running from August 20 to September 24, 2025, the Abuja Youth Talent Hunt will reward winners with over ₦6 million in cash prizes, alongside mentorship, training, and investment opportunities.

The initiative, jointly organised by AICL and the Abuja Enterprise Agency (AEA), targets youths aged 18 to 35 across three critical sectors: Information Technology, Agriculture, and Creative Enterprise.

Participants will benefit from business plan training, pitch coaching, and one-on-one mentorship with seasoned investors. Finalists will present their innovations at the prestigious Abuja Business Investment Expo in October 2025.

Speaking at the event, Acting MD/CEO of AEA, Dr. Chudi Ugwuada-Ezirigwe, described the initiative as a timely intervention against youth unemployment.

“We are building a pipeline of sustainable businesses that will generate jobs and wealth for our society,” he noted.

Dr. Tamuno also commended the FCT Minister, His Excellency Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, for his leadership in supporting MSME development and infrastructure growth, stressing that his vision underpins AICL’s mission to make Abuja a hub for enterprise and innovation.

The programme’s launch featured the formal inauguration of the judging panel and an interactive Q\&A session, giving participants the chance to engage directly with organisers and facilitators.

Also read: AICL GMD backs Abuja creative economy at SIN movie premiere

Ultimately, the Abuja Youth Talent Hunt aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, fostering youth-driven innovation, inclusive economic growth, and sustainable development for a more prosperous Nigeria.