FIC Report (Imo State) – To combat unemployment and stimulate economic growth, the Federal Government has given approval to a nationwide expansion of the Imo state “ONE KINDRED ONE BUSINESS INITIATIVE”.
This programme leverages local communal structures to boost collective entrepreneurship targeted at increasing local economies and decreasing poverty through grassroot business creation.
This approval was disclosed by the Vice President Kashim Shettima during the launch of OKOBI Students Club at the Claretian University of Nigeria, Maryland, Nekede in Imo state
It was part of his engagement in the state.
The Vice President, who was represented by Mrs. Rukaiya El-Rofai from the office of the VP, while speaking, reiterated that the programme falls in line with national priorities to support financial inclusion through savings, investments and access to capital, adding that the businesses can also leverage on technology for growth.
Senator Shettima further assured that ” OKOBI” guarantees universal participation as it promotes gender inclusion and advocates for vulnerable groups. He expressed optimism that “OKOBI” will boost the country’s global human capital Index ranking by 2030.
Speaking, the Imo state governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma stressed the state government’s passion for championing entrepreneurship, innovation and community driven advancement, noting that the project is designed to stimulate economic growth in higher institutions and communities through self- reliance and job creation.
He therefore called on members of the students’ club to use the platform to actualize their ideas into impactful ventures.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Economic Adviser to the governor, Mr. Kenneth Ameshi emphasised that ” OKOBI INITIATIVE” is the Imo government’s attempt to tackle unemployment from the grassroot, adding that about six hundred (600) businesses under the programme had created about twenty thousand (20,000) job opportunities in the state.
He further explained that “OKOBI” is in three categories; Community, Social Groups, Students levels and, encouraged communities nationwide to key in to this grassroots economic advancement.
Mr Ameshi applauded the IHS Nigeria for supporting the programme with grants to the beneficiaries.
Also present at the event was the Director Sustainability IHS Nigeria, Mrs. Tililiope Oguntuga.
AKUSHIE CHIOMA MARK HELEN
HOC
FEDERAL INFORMATION CENTRE ,OWERRI
22/4/2026
