Youth empowerment efforts in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State have received a major boost following a ₦1 million business support intervention facilitated by the Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, in collaboration with the FOOSTODEY platform.
The ₦1 million funding, which enabled the full stocking of a newly rented shop, was provided by a United States–based consultant and specialist paediatrician, Dr. Anani Anthony.
The beneficiary of the intervention is Mr. Alex Bushell, a young entrepreneur from Oginibo town. The support followed an earlier commitment by FOOSTODEY to mobilise resources to ensure that the beneficiary could successfully commence his business after securing a shop.
Mr. Bushell had previously received a ₦200,000 grant under the Hon. Festus Eseoghene Utuama Empowerment Scheme, an initiative of the lawmaker representing Ughelli South Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly.
The initial grant made it possible for him to rent a shop; however, additional funding was required to stock it and begin operations.
While efforts were ongoing to reach multiple sponsors, Dr. Anani Anthony reportedly stepped in and offered to provide the entire ₦1 million needed, ensuring the timely take-off of the business.
With the funds now disbursed, the shop has been fully stocked, effectively placing Mr. Bushell on the path to self-employment, economic independence, and long-term sustainability.
Community members have described the intervention as timely and impactful, noting that it directly addresses youth unemployment while promoting grassroots entrepreneurship in the area.
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Speaking on the initiative, Comrade Reuben Izeze expressed deep appreciation to Dr. Anani Anthony for his consistent support and timely intervention, as well as to Hon. Festus Eseoghene Utuama for championing an empowerment scheme focused on practical, people-oriented, and sustainable economic growth.
The organisers also reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with duly elected representatives, stressing that the initiative aligns with broader objectives of youth inclusion, self-reliance, and political discipline in Ughelli South Local Government Area and the wider Ughievwen Kingdom.
The empowerment exercise, which took place in the early hours of Friday, January 16, 2026, in Oginibo town, has been widely hailed as a positive indicator of renewed socio-economic development and constructive political engagement in the area.
