A graduate of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), Amidu Muhammad, has emerged as a beneficiary of the Nigeria Youth Academy (NiYA) Start-Up Pitch 2.0 Grant Programme, securing a โฆ1 million grant for his climate-technology startup, PlastiBuild Creative Solutions Limited.
The grant was presented at a ceremony held at the State House, Abuja, on 9th December 2025 where selected youth-led startups and informal-sector beneficiaries across the country were recognised for innovations addressing economic and environmental challenges. The event also featured the launch of NiYA Gigs, a digital platform aimed at expanding access to local and global work opportunities for young Nigerians.
Amidu, who graduated in 2021 with a degree in Chemistry Education from the Department of Science and Vocational Education, Faculty of Education and Extension Services, UDUS, was selected for his work in waste management and climate-tech innovation. His startup focuses on converting plastic waste into reusable materials, contributing to environmental sustainability and value creation within the circular economy.
Founder and Chief Executive Officer of PlastiBuild Creative Solutions Limited, Amidu said the idea behind the venture was shaped by early exposure to waste-management challenges in urban communities.
According to him, PlastiBuild deploys technology-driven solutions aimed at reducing plastic pollution while creating employment opportunities.
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He explained that his participation in the NiYA programme followed a competitive selection process that required applicants to submit a short pitch video outlining their innovation, impact and personal journey. Participants were also required to complete an entrepreneurship training programme hosted on the NiYA digital platform.
โThe process was rigorous and focused on innovation, impact and sustainability. It was not just about the idea, but how the solution addresses real problems,โ he said.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, said the NiYA Start-Up Grant 2.0 and the launch of NiYA Gigs were part of efforts to build an inclusive youth-driven economy.
Olawande acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, noting that recent policy reforms, particularly in regulatory review, taxation and access to finance, were designed to improve the business environment for young entrepreneurs. He said the administrationโs youth-focused interventions were aimed at expanding opportunities across sectors.
According to him, over 200 youth-led startups benefitted from the programme, receiving โฆ1 million each, while an additional 100 beneficiaries in the informal sector received โฆ500,000 in direct financial support. He added that NiYA Gigs was expected to complete an ecosystem that moves young people from learning to building and earning.
The minister also acknowledged the support of partner organisations, including Dubai Digital School, Sapphital, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), NEXIM Bank and Providus Bank, for their roles in strengthening the Nigerian Youth HelpDesk and expanding innovation and employment pathways.
The event was attended by senior government officials and stakeholders, including the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, who represented the President; the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; and the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite.
Amidu noted that while the grant amount may be modest given prevailing economic conditions, it would support critical aspects of the startupโs development. He called for sustained institutional and policy support for climate-tech and waste-management startups, stressing the importance of youth-led innovation in addressing Nigeriaโs environmental and employment challenges.
Amiduโs selection adds to the growing list of UDUS alumni contributing to national development through entrepreneurship and innovation.
