Here’s a deeper guide to applying online for the Presidential Youth Empowerment Scheme (P‑YES) in Nigeria. It’s informed by the official portal and the latest credible info.
Youth unemployment remains one of the biggest challenges facing Nigeria today. To tackle this head-on, the Federal Government launched the Presidential Youth Empowerment Scheme (P-YES)- a bold initiative designed to help young Nigerians become self-reliant through practical skills, startup tools, and mentorship.
But here’s the thing: Many people still don’t know how to apply or fall victim to fake portals. If you’re between 18 and 40, ambitious, and ready to take control of your future, this guide will walk you through how to apply for P-YES online in 2025, what you need to qualify, and how to avoid scams. Let’s dive in!
What Is P‑YES?
Imagine a government‑backed power boost for Nigerian youth – startup kits, skills training, mentorship, and no‑strings‑attached support. That’s exactly what Presidential Youth Empowerment Scheme (P‑YES) is: a PPP‑driven initiative designed to reduce unemployment by empowering youth across all 774 local government areas – with a target of creating at least 774,000 empowerment opportunities (about 1,000 per LGA).
P‑YES is packaged under the Office of Special Assistant to the President (Youth & Students Affairs) and partners with private and multilateral organizations.
Latest P-YES Status & Caution
- The official P‑YES portal (p‑yes.gov.ng) is the only trusted source for application. Fraud alerts are posted on the site itself.
- Beware of phishing scams posing as “National Youth Empowerment Fund 2025” or similar. These fake sites ask for personal data, ask you to share on WhatsApp, and do not represent P‑YES.
- As of late July/August 2025, the registration portal is live but inactive, awaiting reactivation before the next enrolment window opens.
Am I Eligible For P-YES?
Eligibility requirements remain consistent:
- Age: 18 to 40 years old
- Citizenship: Nigerian
- Identification: Valid ID like NIN, PVC, or International Passport
- Character: Upright reputation and mental readiness
- Support Structures: A guarantor (e.g. community/religious leader), and endorsement from an LGA official
- Communication: Basic knowledge of English or local language
- Mentorship Capacity: Ability and willingness to empower others locally
How to Apply For Youth Empowerment Scheme
Here’s how the process (When Portal Reactivates):
- Visit the official portal at p-yes.gov.ng. Only here. Avoid any suspicious websites.
- When “Apply Now” becomes active, click to start your online registration.
- Create an account using a valid phone number and email. Confirm via email link.
- Complete the application form:
- Personal info (name, address, DOB)
- Educational background or current occupation
- Preferred empowerment sector (e.g. agriculture, tech, transport, etc.)
- Bank account details (for tools or grant delivery)
- Upload required documents:
- Applicant’s passport photo
- Scanned ID (NIN, PVC, International Passport)
- Guarantor form (filled with their info and signature)
- Recommendation/endorsement from LGA official
- Submit and take note of confirmation or tracking code.
- Selection & notification: If shortlisted, you’ll be contacted via email or SMS with further steps like training schedules, orientation meetings, etc.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Use an active email and mobile number – critical for follow-ups.
- Provide legitimate IDs and accurate info – incorrect details might disqualify you.
- Choose a trade or sector you’re interested in – enthusiasm helps in training and evaluation.
- Have your guarantor ready (community leader, religious head) and ensure they submit their form correctly.
- Keep checking the official P‑YES website for updates – avoid third-party or social media sources.
Why Watch for Scams?
Platforms like PesaCheck have exposed multiple fake empowerment sites that mimic P‑YES branding. These scams often ask you to enter personal data, then encourage you to share the offer widely – classic phishing and click‑fraud behavior. P‑YES itself issues fraud warnings on its official site.
P-YES in 2025?
- Portal currently inactive: Last updated late July 2025, awaiting reopen for next round.
- Communication channels: Official P‑YES emails use domains like @reg.p‑yes.gov.ng.
- Link to Pi‑CNG initiative: While part of broader youth empowerment under the current administration, Pi‑CNG is separate and focused on tricycle-based entrepreneurship through clean energy transport programs.
At A Glance
| Topic | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Empower youth with jobs, skills, tools (774k roles across LGAs) |
| Eligibility | Nigerian, 18‑40 y/o, valid ID, guarantor, community endorsement |
| How to Apply | Official portal (p‑yes.gov.ng) only – fill form, upload docs, submit |
| Fraud Warning | Ignore social media copycats pretending to be P‑YES |
| Portal Status (Aug 2025) | Live but inactive – waiting for re-opening |
| Timeline | Application usually processed within ~2 weeks of submission |
| Follow‑on process | Shortlisted applicants invited to orientation and training |
If you’re a young Nigerian dreaming of starting your own enterprise or scaling up a micro‑business, the Presidential Youth Empowerment Scheme remains a legitimate entry point – but only through the official portal. With the portal reopening soon, now’s the perfect time to gather your documents, identify a solid guarantor, and craft your business or skill interest clearly.
Stay alert, stay official, and apply smart.
