Ife Awkuzu Development Association Advocates for Youth Development at Annual Summit

The Ife Awkuzu Development Association has called upon governments at all levels in Nigeria to prioritize initiatives aimed at enhancing the skills of the country’s youth. Emmanuel Nweke, the national president of the association, made this plea during the second annual summit held at Awkuzu in the Oyi LGA.

Nweke emphasized that focusing on human capital development would be instrumental in addressing prevalent societal issues like unemployment and various forms of criminal activities. He pointed out that a lack of skills and training among Nigerian youths contributes to the rising rates of poverty and crime in the nation.

“The poverty ravaging the country currently is largely due to the fact that our leaders are neglecting the development of the most critical resources to help create jobs for the teeming youths roaming streets,” remarked Nweke. He also acknowledged the responsibility of youths to actively engage in government-sponsored skills acquisition programs.

Nweke stressed the importance of human capital, stating, “The human capital of any nation is the most critical and important part of that nation. It is the human capital that can think, create, envision, imagine, and bring solutions to problems. When the human capital is neglected, the nation is doomed to a life of poverty.”

The association’s commitment to advocating, promoting, and enlightening people on the significance of education and skills acquisition to empower the youth remains unwavering. Offornze Amucheazi, Anambra’s commissioner for Lands, expressed concern about the illegal activities of some youths in communities, which he believes could deter potential investors. He urged the association to intensify its youth enlightenment campaign to mitigate these challenges and foster Anambra’s development.

Charles Anikweze, the ruler of Awkuzu, echoed the call for government support, urging federal, state, and local authorities to assist the association in securing the future of young Nigerians. The association aims to continue its efforts to ensure education reaches every household in the state.

The Ife Awkuzu Development Association’s appeal aligns with broader aspirations to uplift the youth and foster sustainable development within the region.