Jackson Ude, former Director of Strategy and Communications to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, has called on wealthy Nigerians to assist the poor. Ude made this appeal while disbursing a N40 million grant to 40 youths from eight communities in Nkporo, Ohafia Local Government of Abia State.
In a statement on Monday, Ude explained that the grant was intended to help the youths start or expand businesses, thereby alleviating the economic hardships they face. The 40 beneficiaries, selected from the eight sub-villages of Nkporo town—Agbaja, Amurie, Etitiama, Elughu, Nde Nko, Obuofia, Ukwa, and Okwoko—each received N1 million.
Ude expressed his hope that at least 10 of the 40 youths would succeed and grow in their chosen ventures, describing this initiative as his way of encouraging productivity and deterring crime among young people in his community.
“Things are hard, and the youths are most affected, leading to high crime rates. Those of us who are privileged should support young people who are genuinely interested in doing something productive and meaningful. This is the only way to reduce crime in society,” Ude stated.
Ude, a U.S.-based Nigerian-born American and Global Peace Ambassador, has a long history of philanthropy in his community. He has previously awarded scholarships, provided palliatives during the Covid-19 pandemic, and granted financial support to local businesspeople in Nkporo.
Drawing inspiration from philanthropists like Tony Elumelu and Femi Otedola, Ude pledged to continue his efforts to empower youths and vulnerable individuals in his community while promoting peace, equality, and justice.
