The Imo State Commissioner for Youth Development and Talent Hunt, Dr. Mandela Ukaegbu, has reiterated the state government’s commitment to identifying and nurturing the talents of its youth to help them overcome poverty and become prosperous contributors to society.
Dr. Ukaegbu made this declaration during the Imo Youth Stakeholders Security Summit, which took place on Friday at Rockview Hotel, Owerri.
The event, organized by the Ministry of Youth Development and Talent Hunt, drew over 3,000 youths from across the state.
“The youth-friendly Governor Hope Uzodimma has demonstrated his dedication to the welfare of Imo youths by creating avenues for their empowerment and growth”
“Through talents, youths can be meaningfully engaged. The Ministry is committed to identifying and developing these talents to combat poverty and foster societal development.”Ukaegbu stated.
The Commissioner expressed gratitude to the Governor for his foresight and relentless efforts to uplift the youth, emphasizing that peace and productivity among young people would attract more development to the state.
“We must ensure that the youth are positively engaged. When they thrive, Imo State thrives,” he added.
The summit featured thought-provoking discussions from guest speakers, including Rev. Fr. Prof. P.A. Ogbonna, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the 10th Governing Council of Imo State University, and the Imo State Commandant of the NSCDC, Basil Igwebueze.
They emphasized the need for youths to embrace lawful and productive ventures while shunning vices such as drug abuse, kidnapping, and armed robbery.
“Youths play a critical role in fostering peace, security, and societal development.
“They are agents of positive change who can prevent violence through education and advocacy. However, it is regrettable that many youths are economically marginalized when they should be empowered to thrive.” Fr. Ogbonna stated.
Fr. Ogbonna also underscored the importance of providing youths with access to quality education, leadership opportunities, and employment.
“Globally, youths are recognized as critical stakeholders in sustaining peace and security. They must be nurtured as peacebuilders and leaders of tomorrow, with the tools to control their destiny,” he said.
In his address, NSCDC Commandant, Basil Igwebueze commended the organizers of the summit and urged security agencies to remain vigilant in curbing insecurity in the state.
He also called on the youth to shun the lure of quick wealth and embrace values that promote peace and societal advancement.
“Youths must prioritize peace and security as these are the foundations for sustainable development,”
“With the right mindset and effort, they can transform their communities and contribute significantly to economic and social progress.”Igwebueze stated.
The summit ended with a call for collective action to harness the potential of Imo youths.
Stakeholders were encouraged to continue investing in initiatives that build capacity, foster leadership, and promote social harmony among the youth.
