Edo youth development will require young people to reject social vices, pursue education and choose responsible elders as role models, Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa has said.
According to Punch, Idahosa delivered the message on Sunday during the Youth Harvest and Thanksgiving celebration at St. Paul Catholic Church in Benin City.
The deputy governor said young people should understand that their present decisions would shape the future they eventually inherit.
He urged them to direct their energy towards activities that would improve their lives and contribute to the growth of their communities.
Idahosa warned against cultism, kidnapping, drug abuse, internet fraud and violence. He said these activities could destroy the potential of young people and prevent them from becoming responsible leaders.
“To our dear youths, you are not only the future of the Church and our society, you are the present,” he said.
“The decisions you make today will determine the tomorrow you inherit.”
Idahosa promotes education and entrepreneurship
Idahosa encouraged young people to devote themselves to education, vocational training, entrepreneurship, innovation and the pursuit of excellence.
He also advised them to develop strong character, respect their parents and remain committed to their faith.
According to him, young people should surround themselves with individuals who encourage personal growth and responsible behaviour.
He said choosing the right friends and role models could help youths avoid destructive lifestyles while building the discipline needed for success.
“Build strong character, respect your parents and elders, remain steadfast in your faith, and surround yourselves with people who inspire you to become better citizens and responsible leaders,” he said.
The deputy governor attended the event with several political officeholders and public figures.
They included House of Representatives member Omosede Igbinedion and former federal lawmaker Razaq Bello-Osagie. Serving commissioners and other government officials were also present.
Edo youth development remains priority
Idahosa said Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration remained committed to creating an environment that supports human and economic development.
He explained that the state government was implementing programmes focused on skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, employment and innovation.
The administration was also working to create a business-friendly environment that could attract investment and provide opportunities for young residents.
Idahosa said these efforts would lay a solid foundation for sustainable growth and prosperity in Edo State.
“Our vision is clear: to raise a generation of Edo youths who are job creators rather than job seekers, innovators rather than imitators, and responsible leaders who will drive the progress of our dear state and our nation,” he said.
He encouraged young people to take advantage of available opportunities rather than depend entirely on government employment.
The deputy governor said vocational knowledge, digital skills and entrepreneurship could help young people establish businesses and create employment for others.
He also stressed that government initiatives would achieve limited results unless beneficiaries displayed discipline, honesty and a willingness to work.
Idahosa reflects on harvest theme
The event had the theme, “Harvest of Abundance: Favour Without Limits.”
Idahosa described the theme as a timely reminder of God’s favour and the responsibility that accompanies personal opportunities.
He said young people should recognise their abilities as gifts that must be developed and used for the benefit of society.
The deputy governor encouraged them to remain hopeful despite the economic and social challenges confronting the country.
He maintained that determination, proper guidance and access to useful skills could help young people overcome difficulties and build productive lives.
Cleric urges leaders to show compassion
In his homily, Godwin Obe urged political and religious leaders to show compassion towards the people they serve.
The cleric referred to the biblical account of Jesus feeding 5,000 men, excluding women and children, after his disciples suggested sending the crowd away.
Obe said the story demonstrated that leadership should involve recognising people’s needs and responding with compassion.
He encouraged leaders to prioritise the welfare of citizens, particularly those experiencing poverty and hardship.
The cleric also urged members of the congregation to support one another and use their resources to improve the lives of vulnerable people.
The thanksgiving celebration ended with renewed calls for young people to embrace discipline, responsible leadership and productive activities.
