Prioritise Human Capital Development, Engage Home-Grown Professionals in Projects — APC Chieftain, Chibuzom Blast Imo Government.
By Anselem Anokwute
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and indigene of Ogwa Clan in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State, Comrade Chibuzom Joshua, has called on the state government to place greater emphasis on human capital development and the engagement of competent home-grown professionals in the execution of government projects.
Joshua made the call during a media interaction with journalists and media practitioners in Owerri on Saturday, where he also expressed concern over what he described as the poor performance of some elected public officials across the state.
He particularly criticised the performances of some local government council chairmen, members of the Imo State House of Assembly, members of the House of Representatives and senators representing the state, alleging that many of them had yet to deliver sufficient tangible projects and programmes capable of improving the living conditions of their constituents.
However, he singled out the member representing Ideato North/South Federal Constituency, Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere Ikeagwuonu, for commendation, describing him as one of the few lawmakers who had demonstrated visible commitment to effective representation and leadership.
According to Joshua, “The people deserve more than promises and political rhetoric. Elected representatives are entrusted with public resources and the confidence of their constituents. They must therefore be able to point to concrete achievements that directly impact the lives of the people.”
He expressed particular concern over the activities of some local government chairmen, accusing them of failing to adequately utilise available resources to address pressing developmental challenges in their communities.
Joshua lamented the deplorable condition of several rural roads and other basic infrastructure across Mbaitoli and other parts of Imo State, noting that the poor state of some link roads had severely affected movement, commerce, agriculture and access to healthcare and other essential services.
He said the deteriorating condition of some health centres and public infrastructure had compounded the hardship faced by residents, contributing to unemployment, poverty and other social challenges.
The APC chieftain also challenged the Commissioner for Youth and Talent Hunt, Dr. Emeka Mandela Ukaegbu, to redouble his efforts in creating meaningful opportunities for young people in the state.
He urged the commissioner to introduce more aggressive and result-oriented youth empowerment programmes capable of equipping young Imolites with practical skills, employment opportunities and sustainable means of livelihood.
“Government must not allow our youths to remain idle. A government that fails to invest adequately in its young population risks creating a generation without opportunities,” he stated.
Joshua further urged Governor Hope Uzodimma to give greater preference to competent and tested Imo-based professionals and technocrats in the award and execution of major government contracts.
He argued that engaging qualified indigenous professionals would not only promote local expertise but also ensure that a significant portion of government expenditure remains within the state.
“When competent Imo professionals are given opportunities to execute major projects, the money circulates within the state. They employ local workers, patronise local businesses and stimulate economic activities. It creates a multiplier effect across the economy,” he said.
While commending the Uzodimma administration for its Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Recovery (3R) agenda, Joshua called for the construction of more ring roads and strategic road networks linking communities across the state.
He maintained that improved road infrastructure would open up rural communities, enhance economic activities and make it easier for farmers, traders and other residents to access markets and essential services.
The APC chieftain also described human capital development as an indispensable component of sustainable development, urging the state government to intensify its investment in skills acquisition, education and international exposure for young Imolites.
He specifically called for the speedy implementation of the administration’s proposed programme to send thousands of Imo youths abroad for skills acquisition, scholarships, employment opportunities and other forms of capacity development.
According to him, such a programme, if transparently and effectively implemented, could significantly transform the lives of beneficiaries and contribute to the long-term economic development of the state.
“Human capital development must be treated as a priority, not an afterthought. Roads and buildings are important, but people are the greatest assets of any society. If we empower our youths with knowledge, skills and opportunities, they will become employers, innovators and contributors to the development of Imo State,” Joshua said.
He urged the Uzodimma administration to sustain its infrastructure drive while simultaneously strengthening programmes that would empower the people, create jobs and build a productive workforce capable of driving the state’s economic growth.
