Commissioner hails governor’s vision as Imo marks 2025 International Youth Day
…Hundreds of youths storm Owerri streets in solidarity, chanting “Say No to Insecurity”
By Douglas Princemola
The 2025 International Youth Day celebration in Owerri became a platform for praising Governor Hope Uzodimma’s commitment to youth empowerment, as hundreds of young people took to the streets in a colorful rally before gathering at the Ikemba Ojukwu Centre for the main event.
Central to the programme was the Imo State Commissioner for Youth Development and Talent Hunt, Dr. Emeka Mandela Ukaegbu, who extolled the governor’s “clear and inspiring vision” for the future of young people. He pointed to the governor’s recent approval for the recruitment of two youths from each of the state’s 27 local government areas, as well as a ₦30 billion loan scheme created to support young entrepreneurs in small and medium-scale ventures.
These programmes will help address unemployment and give our youths the opportunity to thrive as innovators and job creators rather than job seekers, Ukaegbu said, noting that improved security across the state has also provided young people with the freedom to pursue their ambitions with confidence.
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Emeka Oguzie, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, encouraged the youths to take charge of their destinies. He urged them to stay resilient, embrace self-empowerment, and avoid relying solely on government or external support.
This year’s celebration, held under the theme “Local Youth Action for the SDGs and Beyond,” was not limited to speeches. It featured panel discussions, talent exhibitions, goodwill messages, and networking sessions that brought together young innovators, grassroots leaders and community advocates determined to drive change.
The highlight of the day was a spirited youth rally that swept through Owerri’s busiest streets. Led by Dr. Ukaegbu and senior government officials, the procession carried banners with the bold message “Say No to Insecurity.” The march, which passed through Bank Road, Maria Assumpta Avenue, Government House Roundabout and Douglas Road, served as a powerful reminder of the collective resolve of Imo youths to promote peace, unity and sustainable development.
