The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially reopened the application window for a significant youth empowerment initiative, providing a fresh opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs across the nation. The portal for Batch B of the Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalisation Programme (YEIDEP) is now active, offering non-repayable financial grants ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦500,000 to young Nigerians with viable business ideas.
This move by the administration of President Bola Tinubu aims to directly tackle the twin challenges of youth unemployment and limited access to startup capital. The programme is designed not just as a cash handout but as a holistic support system, combining funding with essential training and mentorship to build sustainable enterprises.
Eligibility Criteria and Grant Details
To qualify for the YEIDEP Batch B grant, applicants must meet specific conditions set by the Federal Government. Interested individuals must be Nigerian citizens aged between 18 and 35 years. Possession of valid National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN) is mandatory. Crucially, applicants must demonstrate a willingness to participate in the accompanying training and mentorship components of the programme.
The grant is tailored to support a wide array of business sectors, reflecting the diverse economic landscape of Nigeria. Priority areas include:
- Agriculture and agribusiness
- Technology and innovation
- Creative industries (fashion, music, arts)
- Renewable energy and sustainability
- Entertainment, sports, and retail services
It is important to note that a fully registered business is not a prerequisite for application. The programme places higher value on a clear, realistic, and scalable business idea with demonstrable potential for growth and job creation.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Prospective applicants are advised to follow a clear procedure to ensure their submission is complete and stands the best chance of success. The application is conducted entirely online and is free of charge.
Step 1: Visit the official YEIDEP portal at yeidep.org.
Step 2: Click on the "Register / Apply" button to begin a new application.
Step 3: Carefully fill in all required personal and business details. This includes your full name, contact information (email and phone number), NIN, BVN, and a concise summary of your business proposal.
Step 4: Upload the necessary supporting documents, which typically include a recent passport photograph, a government-issued ID, and a brief business description or plan.
Step 5: Submit the application and ensure you securely save the generated reference number for future tracking and correspondence.
Following submission, selected applicants may be contacted for further steps, which could include Know Your Customer (KYC) verification through partner banks like Lotus Bank, Keystone Bank, or Fidelity Bank. Applicants should monitor the portal and their email regularly for updates on training invitations or payment notifications.
Key Dates and Tips for a Successful Application
The application portal for Batch B was reopened on 27 October 2025. While a specific deadline has not been publicly announced at this time, the government's track record with Batch A—where disbursements occurred between 20 and 30 October 2025—indicates a structured and active process. Therefore, early application is strongly recommended to avoid a last-minute rush.
To enhance the likelihood of approval, candidates should focus on presenting a compelling case. Experts advise writing a simple and clear business idea that explicitly defines a problem and your proposed solution. Request only the amount of funding you can genuinely justify with a detailed budget. It is critical to ensure that all personal details on your NIN, BVN, and application form match perfectly. Finally, applicants are warned to avoid any agents or middlemen promising assistance, as the official registration process is completely free.
The broader impact of YEIDEP extends beyond individual grants. By empowering a generation of young entrepreneurs with capital, knowledge, and networks, the programme seeks to stimulate local economies, create employment opportunities, and foster community development. For thousands of young Nigerians, Batch B represents a pivotal chance to transform innovative ideas into tangible, income-generating businesses with the backing of the Federal Government.
