Ex-Presidential Aide Disburses N40m to 40 Youths

Prominent journalist and former Director of Strategy and Communications for former President Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Jackson Ude, has awarded a N40 million grant to 40 youths from eight communities in his hometown of Nkporo, Ohafia Local Government Area in Abia State.

The funds are intended to help these youths either start new businesses or enhance existing ones, as well as to alleviate the economic challenges many are facing.

Five youths were chosen from each of the eight sub-villages in Nkporo, totaling 40 recipients and corresponding to the N40 million grant.

The selected youths come from the villages of Agbaja, Amurie, Etitiama, Elughu, Nde Nko, Obuofia, Ukwa, and Okwoko in Nkporo.

“It is my hope and desire that at least out of the 40 youths who benefitted from the N 40million, at least 10 would make it and grow in whatever they have chosen to do with it. It is my own little way of helping young people in my community to be productive and keep away from crime and criminality.

“Things are hard and the youths are mostly affected. That is why you see high crime rates. Graduates and artisans are all looking for what to do to survive. Those of us who are a bit privileged should support young people who are genuinely interested in doing something productive and meaningful. This is the only way to reduce crime in the society,” he said.

Ude, a U.S.-based Nigerian-American and Global Peace Ambassador honored by the Sri Lankan Institute for Peace, was named Odozi Obodo 1 (Beautifier of the Community) of the Nkporo Ancient Kingdom in January 2016 by HRM Eze Dr. Patrick Ogbuagu, the Eze Ajah of Nkporo. With over 30 years as an investigative journalist and strategic communication expert, he is renowned for his work uncovering political and economic corruption in Nigeria.

He cites philanthropists like Tony Elumelu and Femi Otedola as inspirations, noting their commitment to giving back to society, especially supporting the youth and vulnerable groups.

Ude has committed to furthering his efforts to aid youths and vulnerable individuals in his community, promoting peace, equality, and justice through various philanthropic initiatives.

He has previously awarded scholarships to students from his community, provided palliatives during and after the Covid-19 pandemic, and distributed substantial grants to support businesspeople in Nkporo.