Empowerment initiatives have turned chaotic and almost led to stampedes, as witnessed in Owerri, Imo State. Powered by City Boy Moment, a campaign platform founded by Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the event showcased good intentions but ultimately proved to be the wrong approach. The open display of equipment, machinery, food, and other items by the political class is gradually fading away and has proven unsustainable. Often, such programs are disrupted by hoodlums who cart away materials or sell them back to the market, rendering the initiative ineffective.
As a National Business Development Service Provider (NBDSP), I have witnessed firsthand the impact of flawed empowerment initiatives. Giving a sewing machine to an Okada rider or hairdressing equipment to fishermen is not effective. Entrepreneurship is key, but support must be based on merit and targeted at those who genuinely need assistance to scale their businesses, create jobs, and wealth. Hoodlums and political thugs with no interest in productivity should not be the beneficiaries of such initiatives.
The current approach to empowerment is often driven by political motivations rather than a genuine desire to uplift the vulnerable. Many political elites engage in open displays of goods to boost their ego and for jamboree rather than genuine empowerment. This approach consistently leads to failure and undermines the potential of true empowerment initiatives.
To achieve proper, sustainable empowerment, clustering and training are crucial to kick-start such initiatives. A minimum of four steps is required to identify and choose SMEs or entrepreneurs who deserve help or vulnerable individuals who need palliative support. These steps include:
1. Needs assessment: Identify the specific needs of the target group and tailor the empowerment initiative accordingly.
2. Capacity building: Provide training and capacity-building programs to equip beneficiaries with the necessary skills to manage and grow their businesses.
3. Mentorship: Pair beneficiaries with experienced mentors who can guide them and provide valuable insights.
4. Monitoring and evaluation: Regularly monitor and evaluate the progress of beneficiaries to ensure the initiative’s effectiveness.
Developed nations empower their people through well-planned projects, not political motivated empowerment that benefits those who don’t need it. Let’s adopt a more effective approach to empowerment. It’s time to change the approach that consistently leads to failure.
The importance of sustainable empowerment cannot be overstated. It has the potential to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and improve the overall quality of life. However, this can only be achieved if we move away from the current flawed approach and adopt a more strategic and sustainable approach.
In conclusion, flawed empowerment initiatives are a recipe for disaster. We must learn from the mistakes of the past and adopt a more effective approach to empowerment. I urge policymakers, government institutions, and individuals to prioritize sustainable empowerment initiatives that benefit the right people.
Let’s work together to create a more prosperous and equitable society. About the Author
Olubunmi Oluwadare is a renowned expert in entrepreneurship development, a National Business Development Service Provider (NBDSP), and business growth strategies. As the founder of www.uni-preneur.com and www.getajob.ng, he has empowered thousands of entrepreneurs and job seekers across Nigeria and Africa. As Chairman of BEEXO GROUP www.beexogroup.com, he continues to drive business growth and innovation in the region. His book, “I SEE MONEY IN AFRICA”, highlights the vast opportunities for entrepreneurs in Africa.
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