The Federal Ministry of Works has earmarked N500 million in the 2026 budget to fund programs aimed at empowering hairdressers, make-up artists, and youths across Nigeria.
The allocation also covers the provision of grinding machines, motorcycles, mini-vans, and anti-drug awareness campaigns in selected states.
According to the 2026 Appropriation Bill released on the Budget Office’s website, the funds are distributed across different geopolitical zones:
South-South: N35 million for grinding machines for women in Ndokwa/Ukwani Federal Constituency
.
North-Central: N35 million to train women in hairdressing, make-up, and soap production in Mikang/Shandam/Qua’an Pan Federal Constituency, Plateau State.
North-East: N70 million for skill acquisition and trade equipment for youths, women, and retirees in Inyamaltu/Deba, Gombe State.
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South-East: N70 million for mini pick-up vans, shuttle buses, and motorcycles in Abakaliki Federal Constituency, Ebonyi State.
North-West: Programs focusing on youth empowerment, sensitization, and anti-drug campaigns in Zamfara State.
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The inclusion of these empowerment initiatives in the Works Ministry’s budget has sparked debate, with critics questioning whether such allocations fall within the ministry’s core mandate.
Supporters argue that these measures could promote skill development, job creation, and social upliftment at the constituency level.
As Nigeria prepares for the implementation of the 2026 budget, attention will likely focus on how these empowerment projects are executed and the impact they have on local communities.