A new twist has emerged in a fast-spreading story involving YEIDEP’s Coordinator-General, Mr. Kennedy Iyere, and a recent visit to Keystone Bank in Abuja. While many headlines made bold claims about an alleged harassment of bank staff, Mr. Iyere has now spoken out — and he says none of it is true.
According to him, what really happened was very simple. He went to open an account for a major youth empowerment project under the YEIDEP programme, which is expected to disburse up to ₦500,000 grants to thousands of Nigerian youths in 2025.
Mr. Iyere explained that he only asked to speak with the branch manager of the bank. But due to a small mix-up, another staff member first attended to him. Soon after, the manager arrived and the matter was cleared up smoothly — no shouting, no scene, no incident.
In his words, “There was a small misunderstanding, but everything was resolved quickly and respectfully. There was no drama at all.”
He said the story being shared online is completely wrong, and it is important that the truth be shared. He also praised the professionalism of Keystone Bank, calling it one of the best financial institutions he has worked with.
Mr. Iyere added that he has always supported the bank and still does. “They are efficient, dedicated, and their services are top class,” he said. “It is unfair to twist a peaceful visit into something negative.”
The YEIDEP boss also said he will reach out to the Minister of Communications to report how misinformation like this spreads online. He believes that fake stories can hurt good people and good organizations, and this needs to stop.
Iyere emphasized the importance of credible reporting and fact-checking in today’s world. He said that as someone working to help the youth of Nigeria through large-scale programs, his image and credibility matter a lot.
This latest statement from him comes shortly after the announcement of a massive youth grant project, where selected beneficiaries could receive between ₦50,000 and ₦500,000 to support their business ideas or vocational growth.
YEIDEP, short for Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme, is one of the most talked-about youth-focused initiatives in Nigeria today. Many young people are hopeful about the opportunities it promises in 2025.
Now, with this clarification from the YEIDEP coordinator himself, those following the story can have a clearer understanding of what really happened — and what didn’t.
As the dust settles, many are reminded that in today’s social media age, stories can be easily misinterpreted. But when people speak up clearly and calmly, the truth always comes out.
More updates are expected as the YEIDEP grant disbursement process continues across different states in Nigeria.