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Nigeria Expands OKOBI Initiative, Boosting 20,000 Jobs

4/23/2026

Summary

Shettima Expands OKOBI

Nigeria’s Federal Government approved expansion of the ONE KINDRED ONE BUSINESS INITIATIVE (OKOBI) on 22 April 2026, announced by Vice President Kashim Shettima at Claretian University, Nekede.
Shettima said OKOBI aligns with priorities for financial inclusion, tech-driven growth, gender inclusion and vulnerable-group support, and operates in community, social-group and student categories.
Kenneth Ameshi reported about 600 OKOBI businesses have created 20,000 jobs in Imo State, with grant support from IHS Nigeria.

Summary

El-Rufai Launches OKOBI

Coordinator Rukaiya El-Rufai said OKOBI aims to lift Nigeria into the UN Human Capital Index top-80 by 2030.
Deputy Governor Chinyere Ihuoma Ekomaru called the grants investments in innovation and urged beneficiaries to act as community ambassadors.
Attendees said expanding OKOBI could boost digital adoption, financial inclusion and sustainable livelihoods nationwide.
The launch gathered Imo State Executive Council members, university academics, development-partner officials and students, showing cross-sector backing.

Summary

IHS Nigeria Grants

IHS Nigeria contributed N9.5 million in grants to seven cooperative societies at the OKOBI launch.
Director of Sustainability Titilope Oguntuga said the funds help informal firms open bank accounts, improve financial literacy, and lower risk with an economic vision.
Vice Chancellor Rev. Fr. Wence Made said the scheme will address Imo’s shortage of skilled trades, coinciding with the opening of the OKOBI Students’ Club at Claretian University in Maryland, Nekede.

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Shettima Expands OKOBI

Nigeria’s Federal Government approved expansion of the ONE KINDRED ONE BUSINESS INITIATIVE (OKOBI) on 22 April 2026, announced by Vice President Kashim Shettima at Claretian University, Nekede.
Shettima said OKOBI aligns with priorities for financial inclusion, tech-driven growth, gender inclusion and vulnerable-group support, and operates in community, social-group and student categories.
Kenneth Ameshi reported about 600 OKOBI businesses have created 20,000 jobs in Imo State, with grant support from IHS Nigeria.

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