Former NYSC Member Turns NYSC Stipend into Profitable Food Business

A former National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Gladys Adija, has transformed her NYSC stipend into a thriving food business venture. Adija, who served in Plateau State, shared her inspiring journey of saving up during her service year to kickstart her own business.

Throughout her NYSC experience, Adija diligently saved a significant portion of her monthly allowance, managing to accumulate a total of N320,000 by the end of her service year. Despite facing financial constraints and living with a friend to cut costs, she remained focused on her goal of becoming an entrepreneur.

Adija recounted her challenging yet rewarding experience, emphasizing the dedication and determination that led her to build her business from scratch. She mentioned that despite being labeled “stingy” by some acquaintances for her frugal lifestyle, she remained steadfast in her savings and investment strategies.

During her service year, Adija balanced multiple jobs, including cleaning, washing, and tutoring, to supplement her income. She also received support from her family in caring for her child as she navigated the demands of both motherhood and entrepreneurship.

After saving up a substantial amount, Adija used the funds to establish a food business, initially focusing on selling essential food items like garri. She shared her journey of starting small, gradually expanding her product range, and reinvesting her profits to grow her business.

Currently, Adija operates her business successfully, juggling the responsibilities of being a mother of two with her entrepreneurial endeavors. She emphasized the importance of financial independence and self-reliance, encouraging other young women to prioritize their goals and avoid financial pitfalls.