By Douglas Princemola
The 2026 International Youth Day celebration in Imo State has brought youths, the Police, government officials, entrepreneurs, community leaders and civil society groups together in a renewed push for peace, security, youth empowerment and responsible citizenship.
The event, held in Owerri, created an opportunity for young people to engage security stakeholders, discuss challenges affecting them and explore ways of building safer and more prosperous communities.
A major highlight of the celebration was the recognition of individuals who have made notable contributions to youth development, entrepreneurship, community service and the fight against insecurity.
Among those honoured was Engr. Ndubuisi Chidomere, Chief Executive Officer of Pamtech Group and Pamtech Autos, Owerri, popularly known as Pamtech Autos, Billionaire Mechanic.
Chidomere received the Award of Distinguished Service to Youth Development and Responsible Citizenship in recognition of his efforts in youth mentorship, empowerment, entrepreneurship and community development.
Receiving the award, Chidomere expressed appreciation to the organisers, describing the recognition as an encouragement to continue investing in young people and supporting initiatives that can improve their future.
He urged youths to embrace entrepreneurship, acquire practical skills, develop innovative ideas and invest wisely.
According to him, young people should strive to become job creators and contributors to economic development rather than depending solely on employment opportunities.
Other personalities honoured at the event included ACP Adamu Shaba Gboyako, Prince Kelechi Iwueze, Engr. Chizitere Ahubelem and Mazi Jinali.
Security personnel who have distinguished themselves in the fight against insecurity were also recognised for their commitment and service.
Speaking at the programme, the Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, said the Police–Youth engagement was aimed at identifying challenges confronting young people and finding practical solutions.
Bosso called on residents to provide credible information to the Police, stressing that reliable intelligence remains vital to preventing crime and tackling insecurity.
He also emphasised the need to protect the identities of police informants, noting that people who provide security information must be treated with confidentiality.
The Commissioner encouraged youths to embrace dialogue and constructive engagement when addressing grievances instead of resorting to violence.
He assured residents that the Police Command would continue to strengthen its relationship with young people and other stakeholders across the state.
Bosso also urged members of the public to report suspicious activities under the message, “See something, say something.”
The Commissioner for Youth Development and Talent Hunt, Dr. Emeka Mandela Ukaegbu, urged young people to reject violence, cultism, drug abuse and other forms of criminality.
He encouraged youths to embrace skills acquisition, entrepreneurship and other productive ventures that could improve their livelihoods.
Ukaegbu also reminded young people that they should not see themselves only as leaders of tomorrow, but as leaders of today who can already make meaningful contributions to the development of Imo State.
The celebration equally placed emphasis on responsible use of social media.
Participants were encouraged to verify information before sharing it and to avoid spreading content capable of creating tension, confusion or conflict.
The Police–Youth Dialogue also allowed young participants to ask questions, express their concerns and interact directly with security officials.
The engagement was held under the theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” with discussions covering crime prevention, youth participation in security, drug abuse, cultism and responsible citizenship.
The event demonstrated the importance of building trust between young people and security agencies, particularly in addressing issues that affect communities.
For the award recipients, the recognition served as encouragement to continue contributing to society, while for the youths, the engagement provided an opportunity to make their voices heard.
The celebration also featured other activities, including a novelty football match between the Imo State Police Command and Imo youths, as well as a peace walk.
As the 2026 International Youth Day activities continue, stakeholders have renewed their call for greater cooperation among youths, the Police, government and the private sector.
The message from the celebration remains clear: empowered and responsible young people can become powerful partners in the fight against crime and in building a peaceful, secure and economically vibrant Imo State.
