Ukodhiko Advocates for Youth Empowerment and Involvement in Decision Making”

Member Representing Isoko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Pastor Jonathan Ukodhiko, has identified the role of youths in the development of any nation.

The federal lawmaker said the youth population in any country are key in driving sports, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, education and other critical sectors responsible for the growth of any society.

Ukodhiko made the remark in Asaba, while speaking as a Special Guest and keynote speaker at the JPI Youth Assembly, Delta State Chapter, organised by Jamie Pajoel International, in collaboration with UJA Family Foundation.

He described the theme of this year’s Youth Assembly “Inspiring Possibilities”, as apt in view of the importance of youths in shaping the future of any society, with Nigeria not being an exception.

Represented by Professor Peter Emaziye of the Faculty of Agriculture, Delta State University, Abraka, the lawmaker said Nigerian youths have continued to make dynamic contributions in the development of society and called for more concerted efforts in youth empowerment and mentorship.

“As we gather to reflect on the progress, the challenges we face, and the possibilities that lie ahead, youths must be given a place at the table of decision making, to ensure that leadership reflects the desires and aspirations of the entire population.

“This statement has become more evident as the engagement of youths in politics, technology, entrepreneurship, and sports have become more essential than ever before.

“In today’s fast-evolving world, the youths of Delta State are not just the future; they are the present force that drives the future of the state.

“It is important to note that the youths demography comprises of individuals typically aged 15 to 35, which represents a significant portion of the population, often estimated to be around 40-50%.

“Young people bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that can drive progress. Their familiarity with contemporary issues, technology, and global trends allows them to propose creative solutions to local challenges.

Involving youths in nation-building activities can lead to innovative approaches that may not be considered by older generations.

He identified several challenges militating against youth productivity to include lack of job opportunities.

He said the absence of adequate skills and education could limit many youths and urged them to acquire relevant education, vocational training and professional skills to enable them navigate the current economic realities in the present world.

“Although we have thousands of graduates each year, they often lack practical and entrepreneurial skills that are crucial for success in today’s economy. Education that emphasizes theory over practice leaves many of them underprepared for the real-world challenges.

“Another critical challenge is financial constraints, which prevent young entrepreneurs from starting their own businesses. Access to startup capital is a barrier for many talented youths, and the lack of funding options leaves their entrepreneurial ambitions unfulfilled.

“Inspiring possibilities for youths in Delta state is an agenda put together towards empowering young people to believe in their abilities and pursue their dreams.

“By providing access to quality education, vocational training, Job creations and mentorship programs which allows for the cultivation of a generation that is not only knowledgeable but also equipped with practical skills.

“This empowerment encourages self-reliance and entrepreneurial spirit, leading many youths to find the pathway to passion aspirations and equip their full potential’s towards ensuring continuous growth and development in themselves, their families, communities, Delta State and Nigeria.”

Representative of the UJA Family Foundation, Pastor Sunday Elueni, said the Foundation was founded by Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko with headquarters in Abuja and Isoko, adding that the Foundation’s core area of interest include Education, Shelter, Agriculture, Health, Financial empowerment for entrepreneurial skills and mentorship.

He said the Foundation recently empowered Isoko youths with fish fingerline and financial support stressing that over 400 downtrodden in Isoko nation were paid N5,000 monthly.

Pastor Elueni reiterated that the Foundation was sponsoring JAMB Training for UTME enrollees with 10 best highest scorers in Engineering, Medicine and Law granted full scholarship for not just tuition, books and accommodation inclusive.

He said UJA Family Foundation was happy to partner with the State Youth Assembly in nurturing young people to realise their potentials.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, State President of Jamie Pajoel International, Comrade Israel Omanudhowho, said the event was being organised simultaneously in 22 states across the country including the Federal Capital Territory.

He commended Hon. Ukodhiko and the UJA Family Foundation for sponsoring the maiden edition of the State’s Youth Assembly and urged youths in the state to key into the opportunities available for national development.