Economic Empowerment

NLNG empowers communities through sustainable economic initiatives to achieve self-reliance.

From vocational training to small business support, we are creating opportunities, reducing poverty, and driving inclusive growth for a brighter future.

Vocational, Innovation, and Business Empowerment Scheme (VIBES)

With VIBES, we are expanding our reach and amplifying the impact of our work. This initiative adopts a modern, tech-driven, and sustainability-focused model to youth development - equipping young people not just to participate in today’s economy, but to lead it.

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In 2025, in response to the evolving aspirations of today’s youth and the rapidly changing world, we rebranded YES into the NLNG VIBES Initiative. VIBES represents a bold step forward, combining the legacy of YES with a fresh, future-focused approach to empowerment. The focus will be on Advanced Welding, Catering, Automotive, Photography, Farm Management, ICT, Fashion Design, and Cosmetology.

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Our journey began in 2004 with the launch of the Youth Empowerment Scheme (YES). Through YES, we empowered over a thousand young men and women, equipping them with vocational skills, business knowledge, and the confidence to chart their own entrepreneurial paths. NLNG supported these budding entrepreneurs with starter packs, both in materials and seed funding. Approximately 300 graduates now run successful businesses, employing others and contributing to local economies.

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At the heart of VIBES is our belief in empowering people to become creators of jobs, wealth, and lasting positive impact - a belief that fuels our unwavering commitment to building local capacity and driving sustainable growth.

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Today, many of these beneficiaries have become successful business owners, contributing to economic development and creating opportunities for others.

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At the heart of VIBES is our belief in empowering people to become creators of jobs, wealth, and lasting positive impact - a belief that fuels our unwavering commitment to building local capacity and driving sustainable growth.

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VIBES (Vocational, Innovation, Business, and Empowerment Scheme) is an initiative designed to inspire entrepreneurial spirit, build vital networks, and nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs and change-makers within our communities. Through VIBES, we aim to create an environment where individuals can launch businesses, generate employment, and drive innovation.

NLNG-Bank of Industry Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Scheme

The NLNG - Bank of Industry (BOI) Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) scheme combines the previous NLNG Micro-Credit and the Local Vendor Finance schemes. In partnership with the BOI, NLNG provides financial support to small businesses in host communities. The program includes a 1 billion Naira matching fund that offers loans at 9% interest, with a maximum term of 2 years to ensure fund recycling.

The scheme targets members of NLNG host communities looking to upscale their small-scale businesses with the community and NLNG contractors, vendors and service providers.

Applicants can apply via the NLNG-BOI portal at www.boi.ng/fundpartner.

Fishing Community Support

NLNG supports fishing communities by providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and fishing gear, enhancing safety and livelihoods. Also, regular sessions on safe and sustainable fishing practices are conducted under the Environmental, Social, and Health Management Plan (ESHMP).

Bonny Tourism Initiative

The Bonny Tourism Initiative aims to boost local tourism and create revenue streams for the community. The program included a train partnership with Goge Africa. NLNG has trained youths in tourism entrepreneurship.

Right of Way (ROW) Contracts

NLNG awards Gas Transmission System (GTS) Right of Way (ROW) contracts to land-owning families, creating jobs and fostering community involvement in sustainable land use. The activities under the ROW contracts include pipeline surveillance, asset maintenance, and environmental upkeep.