PLASMIDA Highlights Youth Empowerment at Economic, Peace and Security Summit 2.0

The Plateau State Microfinance Development Agency (PLASMIDA) reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment, economic resilience and sustainable development as it participated in the second edition of the Economic, Peace and Security Summit (EPSS 2.0), organised by the Plateau State Youth Council (PYC), Jos North Local Government Area.

The summit, held at the National Metallurgical Development Centre (NMDC), Jos, brought together youth leaders, government officials, security agencies, development partners and peace advocates under the theme: “Youth-Led Solutions for Sustainable Peace, Economic Resilience and Community Security in Jos North LGA and Plateau State.” Representing the Director General of PLASMIDA, Hon. Bomkam Ali Wuyep, Mr. Le’an Jackse commended the leadership of the Plateau State Youth Council, Jos North LGA, for organising a timely and impactful programme focused on empowering young people to become drivers of peace and economic growth. He highlighted PLASMIDA’s mandate of promoting entrepreneurship, supporting Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), creating access to finance and equipping young entrepreneurs with the tools needed to build sustainable businesses across Plateau State.

Mr. Jackse also appreciated the unwavering support of His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, Executive Governor of Plateau State, whose administration has continued to prioritise youth development, economic inclusion and enterprise growth through agencies such as PLASMIDA.

As part of the summit’s panel discussions, Mrs. Jerusha Chaimang represented PLASMIDA during the roundtable conversation on sustainable livelihoods and youth empowerment. She explained the various intervention programmes implemented by the agency, including grants, mobile phone support and other empowerment initiatives designed to strengthen youth-owned businesses and improve livelihoods. Mrs. Chaimang further clarified that while PLASMIDA provides direct support through selected intervention programmes, the agency also plays a strategic role in connecting entrepreneurs with credible financial institutions where they can access business loans and other funding opportunities needed to expand their enterprises. She encouraged young entrepreneurs to take advantage of PLASMIDA’s programmes by acquiring the necessary business knowledge, maintaining viable business plans and embracing innovation as pathways to sustainable economic success.

The summit also featured presentations on peacebuilding, community security and responsible youth engagement, with speakers encouraging young people to reject violence, embrace peaceful coexistence and become ambassadors of unity within their communities. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, strengthening community security and advancing youth-led economic development, while acknowledging PLASMIDA’s continued role in creating opportunities that empower young people and contribute to the socio-economic transformation of Plateau State.