The federal government has approved a nationwide scale-up of the ‘One Kindred, One Business Initiative’ of the Imo government as a strategy to tackle unemployment and boost the country’s economy.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima announced this during Tuesday’s launch of OKOBI Students’ Club at Claretian University of Nigeria, Maryland, Nekede near Owerri.

Mr Shettima restated that entrepreneurship had become a necessity in the country than an option for the growing youth population.

He said, “Let me emphasise that this initiative aligns strongly with our broader national priorities. It supports financial inclusion by encouraging savings, investment and access to finance. It promotes digital adoption, as many of these businesses can leverage technology for growth.”

The vice-president further said that OKOBI advances gender inclusion and support for vulnerable groups, ensuring no one is left behind.

He further said that the initiative would improve Nigeria’s global Human Capital Index ranking by 2030 by focusing on collective action, helping communities and students transition from job seekers to job creators.

Governor Hope Uzodimma restated the Imo government’s dedication to supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, and community-driven development.

“This initiative is not just a policy; it is a movement, designed to stimulate economic growth in our higher institutions and community levels.

“By doing so, we are fostering self-reliance, creating employment opportunities, and strengthening the socio-economic fabric of the state,” Mr Uzodimma said.

He urged members of the students’ club to utilise the platform for the execution of their “conceived ideas that would transform into impactful ventures”.

The chief economic adviser to the governor, Kenneth Amaeshi, reiterated that “OKOBI is an attempt by the government to address unemployment from the grassroots”.

He said that Imo, with about five million population and high literacy rate, was a victim of its success, following the migration of eligible workers to other states in search of jobs.

“About 50 per cent of the 3.5 million eligible working class are unemployed in the state,” he said.

He added that over 600 businesses under the initiative had so far created over 20,000 jobs in the state.

The governor’s aide, who explained that OKOBI is implemented in three categories, namely the community, social groups, and student club levels, urged individuals and communities nationwide to adopt the grassroots economic development.

He commended IHS Nigeria for endorsing the initiative through the donation of grants awarded to the beneficiaries.

(NAN)