NEWS
Dr. Uche Ogah Empowers 300 Abians With POS Machines, ₦50,000 Startup Grants in Massive Grassroots Initiative
Former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, has once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to grassroots development and economic empowerment through a landmark initiative that has brought renewed hope to hundreds of residents across Abia State.
In what many described as a powerful demonstration of leadership, compassion, and political unity, Dr. Ogah, under the platform of the Abia Rejoice Movement and in collaboration with Olive Pay, successfully empowered no fewer than 300 beneficiaries during a grand empowerment programme held at the Abia Rejoice Movement State Campaign Office in Umuahia on May 31, 2026.
The event attracted participants from different parts of the state and became a rallying point for supporters of the present administration in Abia State. In a remarkable display of inclusiveness and solidarity, beneficiaries were drawn not only from the Abia Rejoice Movement but also from the Abia Arise Movement, reflecting a growing spirit of unity among supporters of Governor Alex Otti.
The empowerment programme was carefully designed to promote entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and economic self-reliance among ordinary citizens, particularly youths, women, and small business owners struggling with economic challenges.
Each beneficiary received a fully activated Olive Pay Point-of-Sale terminal alongside a startup capital grant of ₦50,000, providing immediate financial support and the necessary tools to establish or expand small-scale businesses.
Beyond the distribution of POS machines and cash support, beneficiaries were also assisted in registering their businesses with relevant government agencies and issued official registration certificates, a move aimed at integrating them into the formal business sector and positioning them for long-term growth and sustainability.
The involvement of Olive Pay added significant value to the initiative. The Nigerian financial technology company, known for its innovative digital payment solutions and commitment to financial inclusion, played a central role in ensuring the success of the programme through its seamless POS infrastructure and digital payment ecosystem tailored for small and medium-scale enterprises.
The atmosphere at the event was filled with excitement and gratitude as beneficiaries expressed joy over what many described as a life-changing opportunity capable of transforming their businesses and improving their livelihoods.
Speaking during the programme, Dr. Ogah acknowledged the efforts of government in improving the welfare of citizens but stressed that individuals and private organizations also have critical roles to play in supporting society and reducing economic hardship.
He noted that giving back to humanity remains one of his core personal values and a practical way of extending God’s blessings to people genuinely in need of support.
The Abia Rejoice Movement, while commending Dr. Ogah for the initiative, described the empowerment programme as a practical reflection of purposeful leadership and genuine concern for grassroots economic development.
According to the group, the intervention has not only provided economic opportunities for hundreds of families but has also created a platform for many beneficiaries to become financially independent and contribute meaningfully to the economic growth of their communities.
The Movement further expressed optimism that such interventions would continue to open doors of opportunity for entrepreneurs and young people across Abia State while strengthening the culture of empowerment, self-reliance, and human capital development.
The programme has continued to generate positive reactions within political and business circles in Abia State, with many observers describing it as one of the most impactful grassroots empowerment initiatives wit
nessed in recent times.