“Educating youths on needs for them to be involved in security and their role in promoting peace and stability in their communities”
By Nkechi Ojukwu
The Ministry of Youth Development and Talent Hunt in Imo State recently organized the Imo Youth Stakeholders Security Summit with the theme, “Youth Say No To Insecurity”.
The event is in line with the ministry’s mission to engage and empower youths in the state.
The Commissioner for Youth Development and Talent Hunt in Imo State, Dr. Emeka Mandela Ukaegbu, has been actively working to harness the talents and potential of Imo youths. Some of their initiatives include;
Talent Hunt Programmes, to identify and develop young talents in different fields.
Providing opportunities for young people to acquire skills, and training to enhance their employability and contribution to society.
Hon. Mandela, harped on security awareness; that will educate youths on the importance of security and their role in promoting peace and stability in their communities.
He highlighted the significance of the Imo Youth Stakeholders Security Summit which brought together youths from various autonomous communities and organizations to discuss security concerns.
Saying that youth population is of significance, as they are largest demographic group in Imo State.
Youths,he noted are crucial in promoting safety and security.
Hon. Ukaegbu, emphasized the need for championing peace; saying the event was aimed at empowering youths to take active role in safeguarding their communities and state. According to him ,the summit’s theme, “Youth Say No To Insecurity,” underscores the importance of youth involvement in promoting peace and stability,
By involving youths in tackling insecurity, the state government he stressed can; share the burden, reduce its workload and focus on developing other areas in the state.
Empowering youths participation is the aim and focus , as well as engaging them in decision-making, community safety initiatives and encourage them to take responsibility for their communities’ well-being.
He also stated that the summit marks a crucial step in; Identifying key areas addressing issues that directly affect youths.promoting youth-led solutions and encouraging youths to contribute to keeping Imo State safe.
This approach could lead to more effective and sustainable solutions, leveraging the energy and creativity of Imo youth population.
The Commissioner, highlights Governor Hope Uzodinma’s achievements and their potential impact on youth engagement and security in Imo State.
The Governor’s initiatives he disclosed have led to significant progress, particularly in road infrastructure. And also in digitalization efforts
” Imo State’s digitalization drive is expected to make it one of the most advanced states in Africa.
“These achievements can inspire and occupy the minds of Imo youths, potentially reducing insecurity.
By emphasizing the Governor’s accomplishments, Hon. Mandela’s aims is to unite youths behind the Governor’s vision as well as to showcase Imo State’s development and potential, linking development to security ,suggesting that the progress can contribute to reduced insecurity.
He expressed appreciation to the governor for the efforts, particularly towards
youth engagement.
The Governor’s willingness to work with youths has led to a united effort to address insecurity.
“I’m excited with the agreement among Imo youths to; tackle insecurity, work together to promote peace and stability in the state and to support the Governor’s vision and collaborate with the state government to achieve common goals”,he stressed.
Hon. Mandela also highlighted the Ministry’s initiatives to empower Imo youths on skills training,noting that equipping idle youths with skills would enhance employability.
The Youth empowerment; he stated will target over 300,000 youths through various programs and partnerships with offices and industries.
The program will integrate youths into the state’s development initiatives such as:business loans support, and providing financial assistance to self-employed youths to expand their businesses.
These efforts he expressed are aimed at : reducing unemployment, by providing skills, opportunities, and support for young people.
It will Foster economic growth through entrepreneurship and job creation as wel
The Governor ,he opined recognizes the potential of Imo youths and is investing in their development to drive economic growth and prosperity.
The Commissioner expressed gratitud to the youth for participating in the program and working towards a common goal.
He thanked Governor Uzodinma for providing opportunities and showing love and care for the youth s.