By Gloria Ikibah

The Idealab Agency has called on lawmakers, management, and staff of the National Assembly and Nigerians at large to support locally made products and services to boost employment and economic sustainability in Nigeria.

The Agency which established by the federal government, focuses on assisting smallholder farmers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in accessing intervention funds.

During a press conference in Abuja, the Director-General of the Agency, Emmanuel Aondoakaa, emphasized the need for partnerships to facilitate the disbursement of grants, aid, scholarships, employment opportunities, and loan programs.

He also highlighted the importance of digital skills training in these initiatives.

Aondoakaa also noted that the removal of fuel subsidies has worsened the economic situation for many Nigerians, pushing them below the poverty line.

He said: “In response, the Federal Government, in collaboration with the World Bank, has introduced intervention programs aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians, particularly women and youth, through investment in the digital economy and creative enterprises.

“One of these initiatives, the *Federal Government Talent Export Initiative*, aims to equip Nigerians with advanced digital skills, enabling them to tap into the global economy while working remotely and earning as much as N10 million monthly. Additionally, the program offers fully funded sponsorships for those seeking direct employment opportunities abroad with organizations like the World Bank”.

Aondoakaa further urged stakeholders in the National Assembly to promote these programs within their constituencies to help beneficiaries access grants, scholarships, and other resources to combat poverty and build wealth.

Dr. Christiana Solanke-Olajide, Chairman of the Board, expressed concern over the rising grant-related crises in Nigeria and stressed the need for government action.

She commended President Bola Tinubu’s goal of lifting 50 million Nigerians out of poverty by 2027, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through innovative programs and skills development.

Solanke-Olajide outlined the *Vocational and Financial Empowerment (VFE)* program run by the Agency, which operates quarterly to empower both employed and unemployed Nigerians.

“The program provides training in various fields such as catering, tailoring, soap making, and animal husbandry, with a special focus on women and youth”, she said.

She also explained that the second phase of the VFE program, which runs from May to August, is specifically designed to support widows, providing them with agricultural training and tools.

“The third phase, referred to as “Mercy Week,” focuses on offering scholarships, free medical care, and material support to underprivileged children and youth”, she added.

Idealab Agency continues to push for greater awareness and participation in its programs, aiming to drive economic growth and reduce poverty across Nigeria.