IMO COMMISSIONER UKAEGBU HAILS GOVERNOR UZODIMMA ON YOUTH EMPOWERMENT
— International Youth Day 2025 Celebrated in Grand Style
By Anselem Anokwute, Owerri
The Imo State Commissioner for Youth Development and Talent Hunt, Dr Emeka Mandela Ukaegbu, has extolled Governor Hope Uzodimma for his sustained commitment to youth empowerment and digital innovation in the state.
Dr Ukaegbu gave the commendation on Friday during a grand ceremony marking the 2025 International Youth Day, held at the Talent Hall, Ikemba Ojukwu Centre, New Owerri.
The Commissioner, addressing a cross-section of youths and dignitaries, described Governor Uzodimma as a “Pan-African Governor” with a clear, far-reaching vision for youth development. He cited the Governor’s approval of employment for two young persons from each of Imo’s 27 local government areas, as well as the creation of a ₦30 billion loan facility to support youth-led small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
“These initiatives,” Ukaegbu stated, “are practical steps towards tackling youth unemployment and stimulating grassroots economic growth.”
He also praised the Governor’s efforts in enhancing security across the state, noting that the prevailing atmosphere of peace and safety has allowed young people to pursue their daily activities and aspirations without fear.
Reaffirming the commitment of his ministry, the Commissioner pledged continued support for youth participation in leadership, economic advancement, and peacebuilding efforts across the state. “Imo youths remain united in their quest for a peaceful, inclusive, and progressive society,” he added.
Among other dignitaries present was philanthropist and entrepreneur, Hon Kennedy Iyere, who lauded the Commissioner’s achievements and reiterated his support for youth-focused initiatives. Speaking to journalists, Iyere, a close associate of Dr Ukaegbu, affirmed that the Governor’s development agenda aligns with his own philosophy of empowering young people to escape poverty and deprivation.
“I will continue to support and empower the youth through my foundation to ensure meaningful and productive engagement,” Iyere stated.
Also speaking at the event was the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Professor Emeka Oguzie, who served as keynote speaker. Prof Oguzie charged the youth to take ownership of their future by remaining focused, resilient, and self-reliant in the face of systemic challenges.
“The future belongs to those who believe in their dreams,” he said, while encouraging the youth not to depend solely on government interventions but to actively pursue self-development and innovation.
Themed “Local Youth Action for the SDGs and Beyond,” the 2025 International Youth Day celebration brought together a wide spectrum of young innovators, community organisers, and grassroots leaders committed to sustainable development and social transformation.
With the campaign slogan “Say No to Insecurity,” the event underscored the crucial role of youth in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and in promoting peace and stability within communities.
The celebration featured panel discussions, a talent showcase, goodwill messages from stakeholders, networking opportunities, and the exchange of transformative ideas, all geared towards harnessing the potential of Imo’s youth population.
A major highlight was a spirited road rally, led by Dr Ukaegbu and accompanied by several Special Advisers to the Governor and other senior government officials. The procession, which drew hundreds of enthusiastic participants, took off from the Ikemba Ojukwu Centre and traversed key routes including Bank Road, Maria Assumpta Avenue, the Government House Roundabout, and Douglas Road, before returning to the venue for the main event.