The Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, has charged the youths of his State to embrace entrepreneurship and innovation in order to move the State and Nigeria forward.
The Governor urged the youths to see themselves as leaders, who have significant roles to play in the development of Enugu State.
Mbah gave this advice at the weekend during the 2024 Enugu Leadership and Business Summit, organized by Enugu Innovative Youths (EIY).
Speaking at the summit tagged, “The Role of Youths in Building a New Enugu,” Mbah emphasized the importance of youths embracing new knowledge in all its forms. He urged them to seek mentorship from those who had walked the path before them.
The Governor also said the youths should not to underestimate the power of collaboration and creativity in achieving their dreams.
Addressing the youths at the summit held at University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Governor Mbah extolled the energy the youths brought to the summit. He said the gathering showed the incredible power that lay within the youths to reshape the State.
The Governor who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, added that the theme resonated deeply with their collective aspirations. He disclosed that the administration was deliberate in setting aside leadership positions for youths in the government.
He said, “Because of the pivotal role youths play in reshaping the destiny of Enugu State, whether through entrepreneurship or advocacy, and public service, the administration had continued in its commitment to equipping them with modern digital training and skills that would enhance their capacity.
Mbah, therefore, enjoined them to embrace leadership. “Which,” he said, “was not title or position, but something that begins with self-awareness. And a commitment to integrity, empathy, and ethical conduct.”
The Governor added that leadership was defined by the courage to take initiative. The resilience to navigate challenges, and the compassion to impact meaningfully in the lives of others.
He said, “True leaders inspire trust, empower others and champion inclusivity. Remember to uplift those around you when ascending the ladder of success. This is because true greatness is not measured by personal accolades you receive. But by the positive impact you have on others.
“Your contributions matter and you have power to make a difference. The time to lead is now and the world is waiting for you.”
In another lecture delivered by a member representing Enugu North and South Federal Constituency, Chimaobi Atu, titled, “A limitless potential of Enugu youth” he urged the youth to embrace innovation and acquire digital skills and networking.
The member representing Nkanu East and West Federal Constituency, Nnolim Nnaji, also presented a paper at the event.
Delivering his paper on “Youths And Drug Abuse” Nnaji warned that drug abuse posed socio-economic effects and endangered the future of youths.
He, therefore, advised them to shun any form of drug abuse in order to build the desired society that they would happily bequeath to the next generation.
Earlier, the Director of EIY, Rev. Chimaobi Aninwene, said the summit was aimed at mobilizing youths on the need to be part of the happenings in Enugu and the country.
He said, “Before this time, many youths thought that to be a youth is just about a particular age. Youth need to understand who they are to value themselves. We want to be part of the innovation and creativity going on in the State. As well as partnering with Mbah because of his developmental strides within one year in office.”
Aninwene commended the Governor for the growth and development the State had witnessed within a short period of time. He, therefore, expressed optimism that Enugu would achieve the goals it had set out for.
“The event witnessed presentation of N100,000 each to three youths of the State for their education. The Governor was presented with the Best Innovation Award of the Year.
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