The Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP) has re-entered public discussion as Wema Bank reportedly began sending account numbers to applicants of the scheme. The move, which marks the first visible sign of progress in weeks, has renewed hope among many young Nigerians awaiting disbursement.

Account Number SMS Goes Viral
Several applicants confirmed receiving SMS alerts directly from Wema Bank. The text reads: “Congrats! Your YEIDEP application is complete, and your Wema account (number) is active. Stay tuned for more info.”

The messages quickly went viral on Facebook and WhatsApp, with many beneficiaries sharing screenshots as evidence of progress. For thousands who have been waiting for months, the account creation process is being interpreted as a sign that payments could begin soon.

Disbursement Still Uncertain
YEIDEP had earlier indicated that Batch A beneficiaries would be paid between July 1 and July 31, 2025, but no payments were made. A later circular suggested new dates—October 20 to 30, 2025—though neither YEIDEP officials nor the federal government has released an official confirmation.

Viral Account Number messages

Viral Account Number messages

This silence has left applicants in limbo. The latest step by Wema Bank is being viewed as the strongest indication yet that preparations for disbursement may finally be underway.

Wema Bank Leads Rollout
So far, only Wema Bank has begun issuing account numbers to applicants. Other partner banks expected to participate in the programme are yet to make similar announcements.

An unverified circular circulating online suggested that account detail collection would run between September 1 and 10, 2025, with further engagement scheduled between September 11 and October 11, 2025. However, no official statement has backed these dates.

About YEIDEP
The YEIDEP scheme was introduced to empower Nigerian youths through financial aid, training, and business support, with the broader goals of job creation, poverty reduction, and offering alternatives to negative influences. For many applicants, receiving an account number marks the first tangible step toward actual financial assistance.

Fraud Warning
Authorities and civil society groups have advised applicants to remain vigilant against fraudsters who may exploit the rollout. Applicants are reminded that YEIDEP does not require any payments for account activation or fund disbursement, and any such request should be treated as fraudulent.

Next Steps Still Unclear
While the viral SMS from Wema Bank has raised optimism, it also brings new questions: When will disbursements officially begin? Will other banks follow the same process? And will the federal government issue a clear update on timelines?

For now, attention remains firmly on YEIDEP and its partner banks, as beneficiaries continue to wait for the long-anticipated funds.