ABUJA YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS’ HUNT 2026 KICKS OFF AS JUDGES ARE INAUGURATED
By: Halima Farouk
The Abuja Young Entrepreneurs’ Hunt (AYEH) 2026 officially commenced with its opening ceremony and the inauguration of judges at the Abuja Enterprise Agency (AEA) headquarters at Jahi, Abuja.
The event brought together key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and development partners committed to strengthening entrepreneurship and supporting the growth of small and medium enterprises within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Powered by Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL) in partnership with the Abuja Enterprise Agency (AEA), the competition is designed to encourage proper business plan writing, provide mentorship, and support the development of viable businesses capable of creating jobs and driving economic growth.
In his welcome remarks, the Acting MD/CEO of Abuja Enterprise Agency Dr. Chudi Ugwuada- Ezirigwe, emphasized the agency’s commitment to building a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem in Abuja by equipping young business owners with the right skills, resources, and access to opportunities needed for sustainable growth.
Representing the Group Managing Director/CEO of Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL), Amb. Maureen Tamuno, the Chief Investment Officer, Dr. Abiodun Akanbi, delivered a special address where he highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship as a catalyst for economic transformation.
He noted that the Abuja Young Entrepreneurs’ Hunt 2.0 is not just a competition but a strategic platform created to identify, nurture, and support innovative business owners who have the potential to contribute meaningfully to the economy of the FCT and beyond.
He further encouraged participants to maximize the opportunity by developing strong business plans, embracing innovation, and positioning their businesses for scalability and long-term impact.
The major highlight of the programme was the official inauguration of the panel of judges who will oversee the screening, evaluation, and selection of outstanding entrepreneurs throughout the competition.
The judges were carefully selected based on their experience, expertise, and contributions across business development, finance, entrepreneurship, and investment.
The programme also featured goodwill messages from invited dignitaries, a documentary presentation on the Road to the AYEH Competition 2025.
Participants who meet the eligibility criteria—including being between 18 and 40 years old, residing in the FCT, and owning a registered business with growth potential—are encouraged to apply for the competition.
Winners across sectors stand a chance to receive cash prizes of ₦1.5 million, ₦1 million, and ₦750,000 respectively, alongside mentorship, training, investor access, and post-program business monitoring.
Applications for the Abuja Young Entrepreneurs’ Hunt 2026 remain open and will close on 13th May 2026.
For registration and updates, interested applicants can visit:
