“The Greener Pasture Is in Abia” — Kalu Kalu Agu Unveils Youth Empowerment Plan

“The Greener Pasture Is in Abia” — Kalu Kalu Agu Unveils Youth Empowerment Plan

2027: Kalu Kalu Agu Promises Annual Grants for Abia Youths, Entrepreneurs

The African Democratic Congress governorship candidate in Abia State, Kalu Kalu Agu, has unveiled plans to introduce an annual grant programme for talented young people and entrepreneurs in the state if elected governor in 2027.

Agu disclosed the proposal during a Arise TV interview in which he was questioned about his economic development programme, youth engagement and plans to strengthen small and medium-scale businesses, particularly in Aba.

He said one of his priorities would be restoring confidence among young Abians and creating opportunities that would reduce the pressure on them to leave the state or country in search of economic opportunities.

According to Agu, many young Nigerians have come to believe that opportunities exist only outside the country, but he wants a government capable of convincing Abia youths that they can develop successful careers and businesses at home.

Drawing inspiration from private-sector entrepreneurship programmes that provide grants to young Africans with promising ideas, Agu said his proposed administration would identify talented young Abians every year and provide financial support for them to develop their skills and businesses.

“As a Governor of Abia State, I will make sure that on yearly basis… I will gather the best brains among the young people of Abia State, and give them grants to develop their talents,” he said.

The ADC candidate also spoke about the commercial reputation of Abia and Aba in particular, arguing that small businesses need greater institutional support to expand and create employment.

He recalled the descriptions of Abia as a major centre of indigenous manufacturing and enterprise and said his administration would seek to revive that reputation by supporting people operating small businesses.

Although Agu did not provide details during the interview on the proposed size of the annual grant fund, eligibility requirements or how beneficiaries would be selected, his comments outlined youth entrepreneurship as one of the themes of his 2027 campaign.

The ADC formally listed Kalu Kalu Agu as its governorship candidate for Abia State in September 2026.