Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) has disbursed N250 million in grants to 51 entrepreneurs under its 2026 Vocational Innovation and Business Empowerment Scheme (VIBES).
The company disclosed this in a statement issued by its Manager, Corporate Communication and Public Affairs, Mrs. Anne-Marie Plamer-Ikuku.
According to the statement, 103 participants from NLNG host communities were inducted into the programme.
Speaking at the event, NLNG General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Dr Sophia Horsfall, said beneficiaries emerged after a competitive pitch-a-thon.
Horsfall said participants presented business ideas and funding needs before a panel with selections based on viability, scalability and sustainability.
“What we are doing with this funding is bridging the gap between learning and execution.
“Many small businesses struggle at the stage where they have knowledge but lack capital to move forward,” she said.
She explained that the grants would enable entrepreneurs to implement ideas, stabilise operations, and position their businesses for growth.
Horsfall said the initiative aligned with NLNG’s commitment to sustainable community development through capacity building and financial support.
“The scheme will strengthen businesses, create economic value, and provide sustainable livelihoods in host communities,” she added.
In his remark, NLNG Manager, Community Relations and Sustainable Development, Mr. Yemi Adeyemi, commended participants for their dedication.
Adeyemi said the funding would help beneficiaries expand operations, improve productivity, and create jobs.
He reaffirmed NLNG’s commitment to supporting enterprise development and building local capacity in its host communities.
The pitch-a-thon concluded a four-week intensive business training programme.
Participants were equipped with practical skills in financial management, business strategy, marketing and operations to strengthen their enterprises.
By Desmond Ejibas