In every democratic society, youth development is not just important, it is essential. It is the most reliable way to secure the future and ensure long-term national growth. As former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon opined, “Investing in young people is not just a moral imperative, it is a smart investment for the future.” This statement speaks volumes about the need for government at all levels to take youth development seriously.
Today, the most innovative minds and effective leaders around the world are young people. From technology to politics, from education to entrepreneurship, youths are making incredible contributions. Many of the most famous and impactful individuals we celebrate today made their mark while they were still young. This tells us one thing clearly, when we empower young people, we empower the future.
For any democracy to thrive, it must include its young population in nation-building. Youths should not be seen as leaders of tomorrow only, but as partners in leadership today. Including young people in policy making, governance, and community development ensures that the ideas, energy, and creativity of the youth are fully harnessed.
Unfortunately, when the same faces are always in charge and the youth are excluded from the decision-making table, progress slows down. Young people become disconnected and disinterested in national affairs. As the late Ghanaian diplomat and former UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, wisely said, “A society that cuts off from its youth severs its lifeline.”
In Nigeria today, one shining example of leadership in youth development is the Governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru. He has shown exceptional commitment to youth empowerment and inclusiveness since he assumed office. His leadership shows that he doesn’t only care about protecting lives and properties today but is also securing the future of Ebonyi State and Nigeria at large.
Governor Nwifuru’s efforts deserve to be recognized and applauded. Here are a few ways he has taken concrete steps toward youth development:
1. Appointing Young People to Key Positions: The Governor has brought many young people into the State Executive Council. Even if they lack experience, he understands that giving them responsibility is the best way to train and mentor future leaders. These appointments show true foresight.
2. Reviving the State Football Team: This move not only boosts the state’s sports sector but also opens doors for youth talent to shine. Sports can be a major economic driver and a source of pride for the youth.
3. Agricultural Training for Councillors: Governor Nwifuru sponsored 171 ward councillors to undergo training in modern agricultural practices in Nasarawa State. The goal? That they return to their communities and train others. This approach promotes food security and gives young people valuable skills.
4. Financial Empowerment Programs: The Governor has also introduced several financial support programs to help young people start businesses of their choice. This kind of support can transform lives and strengthen the economy.
5. In the words of India Prime Minister–Narendra Modi,” Give the youths a proper environment, motivate them, extend give them the support they need. Each one of them has an infinite source of energy.they will deliver.” APC led government in the state has so much believe in the potentials of the youths, Governor Nwifuru’s Scholarship programme has captured over 1,000 Ebonyi indigens with about 204 in United Kingdom for Masters and PhDs, this scholarships abroad is significant as it empowers individuals with advanced knowledge and skills, promotes human capital development, and enhances the state’s long-term socio-economic growth by investing in education and future leaders.
6.The recent flag-off of Industrial City, by His Excellency, Rt Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru is another calculated move to harness the great potentials in our youths, this Industrial city will not only expose the youths to technology know-how but the advancement of technology in the World.
The youths stands to gain a lot in the establishment of the industrial city as it provides job opportunities, boosts entrepreneurship, and equips youths with practical skills, helping to reduce unemployment and drive economic growth.
Governor Nwifuru is setting an example for other leaders to follow. He understands that a nation’s strength lies in how she treats her youths. By mentoring, empowering, and including young people in governance, he is planting seeds that will bear fruit for generations to come.
*Indeed, posterity will remember Governor Nwifuru kindly for seeing the youth not just as a group to be managed, but as a foundation for progress.*
OFFICE OF THE APC PUBLICITY SECRETARY, EBONYI STATE
