Youth Development in Anambra South: A Path to Progress
By Chizoba Njaka
For over a decade, there has been growing discontent with the sluggish pace of youth development in Anambra South, despite the region's wealth.
Barr. Peter Ekwueme, the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) Senatorial Aspirant, Anambra South District who made this statement in a social media platform drew inspiration from the remarkable transformation of Ebonyi State, attributing its success to collective efforts.
He acknowledged that numerous young individuals in Anambra State are being neglected and subsequently drawn into criminal activities, and pledged to address this issue if given the opportunity.
According to him, the problem is particularly concerning, as crime poses a significant threat to public safety, growth, and development in Nigeria adding that effective measures to empower youths and provide them with alternative opportunities are crucial in reducing crime rates.
Barrister Ekwueme emphasized the imperative need for transparency and accountability, stressing that these principles are essential to restoring confidence among the youth in the state.
He said, "By promoting openness and answerability, the administration can effectively combat voter apathy and corruption, ultimately ensuring the prudent management of the commonwealth".
The NNPP candidate pledged to provide innovative youth support through modern sustainable initiatives, focusing on life coaching, world-class digital and vocational skills development, and specialized training that goes beyond conventional skills adding that the approach will aim to equip young individuals with cutting-edge expertise, enhancing their employability and competitiveness in the global market.
To enhance youth involvement in politics, he said, is essential to encourage them to go beyond voting and mobilizing supporters, but instead, contest for key political positions stressing that it would enable them voice their values and drive innovative sociopolitical solutions, akin to their global counterparts. Thus, "youths can bring fresh perspectives, modern ideas, and a deeper understanding of the challenges facing their generation to the forefront of politics and lead to more inclusive decision-making processes, better representation of youth interests, and ultimately, a more vibrant democracy" he added.
Barrister Ekwueme further emphasized that youth participation in politics is vital for several reasons: to ensures that their voices and aspirations are represented in decision-making processes and to contributes to the innovation and renewal of the political process as well as fostering accountability and transparency.
He however pointed out the need to establish a new political paradigm that prioritizes honesty, integrity, and a youth development agenda recognizing the importance of collective action. He noted that with the support of the masses, it is possible to achieve this vision and create more equitable and just society for all.