Nigeria’s youth need meaningful opportunities to engage productively in the economy, and the federal government has responded with a bold initiative. The Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalisation Programme (YEIDEP) invites eligible young Nigerians to register for access to training, mentorship and grants of up to ₦500,000.
This article provides a concise overview of the programme, followed by detailed eligibility criteria, benefits, and a step-by-step application guide to help you prepare a strong application.
Programme Summary
| Item | Details |
| Host | Federal Government of Nigeria |
| Programme Name | Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalisation Programme (YEIDEP) |
| Category | Youth empowerment: training, entrepreneurship, economic engagement |
| Eligible Applicants | Nigerian citizens aged 18-35 with valid NIN & BVN |
| Grant Value | Up to ₦500,000 per beneficiary (with training and mentorship) |
| Key Focus Sectors | Agriculture, Fashion, ICT/Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Renewable Energy, other productive enterprises |
Why the YEIDEP Matters
YEIDEP is not just another grant scheme. It represents a strategic effort by the Nigerian government to:
- Address youth unemployment by equipping young Nigerians with entrepreneurial skills and funding.
- Promote economic inclusion by targeting youth engagement in sectors with growth potential (agriculture, tech, renewable energy).
- Support national security and de-radicalisation by redirecting youth energy into productive ventures and away from unproductive inactivity.
- Link training, mentorship and financing — meaning applicants don’t just receive money, they receive structure and support.
Because the scheme is large-scale and government-backed (with goals of reaching millions of young people), preparing a purposeful, clear application is crucial to stand out.
Eligibility and Requirements
To be considered for YEIDEP, you must meet these essential criteria:
- Be a citizen of Nigeria.
- Be aged 18 to 35 years.
- Possess a valid National Identity Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN).
- Be involved in, or have a strong interest in, any of these productive sectors: agriculture, fashion, ICT/technology, entertainment, sports, renewable energy, or another viable enterprise.
- Have or be willing to open a bank account with one of the partner banks.
- Be ready to engage fully in the training and mentorship programme that precedes or accompanies the grant.
- Register via the official portal when it opens, and provide complete and accurate information.
- Note: The name change from NIYEEDEP to YEIDEP was formalised to reflect a sharper focus and youth-ownership of the initiative.
Grant Value & How It Works
The support provided under YEIDEP is generous and multifaceted:
- Grants of up to ₦500,000 are available for qualifying youths who complete the training and mentorship requirements.
- Beneficiaries receive training in entrepreneurship, access to business development services, mentorship and monitoring to help ensure real success.
- The programme is mediated through partner banks to ensure accountable disbursement and proper tracking.
- Importantly: The process is free of charge for applicants; any demand for payment is a red flag.
How to Apply (Registration Process)
Here is the step-by-step process to register for YEIDEP:
- Prepare your documents & details – NIN, BVN, age verification, bank account readiness, contact information, and choice of business or enterprise sector.
- Access the registration portal – When open, follow the link to the online form on the official YEIDEP website.
- Complete the online form – Provide your name, address, phone number, state of origin, LGA, NIN, BVN, business interest sector, etc.
- Receive your membership code – After successful registration, you will be issued a code which you’ll need when engaging with the partner bank.
- Visit partner bank with your code – Go to the specified partner bank, present your membership code and open or link the bank account for the programme.
- Attend training & mentorship – Complete the required training and mentorship as specified by YEIDEP in your region.
- Benefit from grant disbursement – Upon verification and successful completion of the training/mentorship, you become eligible for the grant.
- Stay alert for official announcements – The portal opens for batches (e.g., Batch B reopened 27 Oct 2025), and disbursement dates may be adjusted.
For more details, visit the official website here.
Strategic Tips to Maximise Your Success
- Ensure your business idea or sector is clearly defined and realistic — applicants with a clear plan tend to stand out.
- Highlight your motivation and readiness to engage with the training, mentorship and follow-up required by the programme.
- Gather any proof of business or entrepreneurial involvement (even if small-scale) to demonstrate you are ready for the grant.
- Make sure your bank details, NIN and BVN are current and accurate to avoid delays.
- Monitor official YEIDEP channels carefully to avoid scams: remember that you should never pay any fee to apply or access the grant.
- Standby for the portal opening for your batch – apply promptly when registration is announced.
FAQ
Who can apply for YEIDEP?
Any Nigerian citizen aged 18-35 with a valid NIN and BVN, interested in a productive business sector and willing to complete the training/mentorship requirements.
What kinds of business sectors are eligible?
Sectors include agriculture, fashion, technology/ICT, entertainment, sports, renewable energy and other viable enterprise areas. The focus is on productivity and youth economic engagement.
How much grant can I receive under YEIDEP?
The grant value can go up to ₦500,000 for successful beneficiaries who meet the training, mentorship and verification requirements.
When is the registration portal open?
Registration opens in batches. For example, the portal reopened for Batch B on 27 October 2025.
Do I have to pay to apply?
No. The registration and grant application process is free of charge.
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