By Nelson Egware
Youth empowerment efforts in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State have received a significant boost as the Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, in collaboration with the FOOSTODEY platform, facilitated a ₦1 million business support intervention for a young entrepreneur.
The ₦1 million funding was provided by a United States–based consultant and specialist paediatrician, Dr. Anani Anthony, who fully financed the stocking of a newly rented shop for Mr. Alex Bushell of Oginibo town. The intervention followed an earlier commitment by FOOSTODEY to mobilise funds to enable the beneficiary commence his business.
Mr. Bushell had earlier benefited from 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 enabled him to secure a shop, while additional funding was required to stock it.
As efforts were ongoing to reach multiple sponsors, Dr. Anani Anthony reportedly stepped in and offered to provide the entire ₦1 million needed.
With the funds now disbursed, the shop has been fully stocked, positioning Mr. Bushell on the path to self-employment and economic independence.
Community members have described the development as timely and impactful, particularly in addressing youth unemployment and promoting grassroots entrepreneurship.
Speaking on the intervention, Comrade Izeze expressed appreciation to Dr. Anani Anthony for his consistent support and timely assistance, as well as to Hon. Festus Eseoghene Utuama for championing an empowerment scheme focused on practical and sustainable economic growth.
The organisers reaffirmed their commitment to working with duly elected representatives, stressing that the initiative aligns with broader objectives of youth inclusion, self-reliance and political discipline in Ughelli South 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 hailed as a positive sign of renewed socio-economic and political engagement in the area.
