Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, has praised Governor Rt. Hon. Francis Nwaifuru of Ebonyi State for his exemplary initiative in sending 204 promising youths abroad under his administration’s scholarship scheme.
The group lauded the move, describing it as a significant contribution to youth empowerment, especially in the face of the growing insecurity and challenges in the Southeast region.
In a statement sent to journalists by its Deputy President General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze noted that the scholarship program represents more than just a form of support, stressing that it is a visionary investment in the future of the region.
The group applauded Governor Nwifuru for prioritizing education at a time when political unrest, thuggery, and youth restiveness are widespread in the Southeast.
However, Ohanaeze expressed disappointment in the lack of similar efforts from other Southeast governors, particularly in Abia, Anambra, Enugu, and Imo States.
Part of the statement read: “These states languish without robust frameworks for youth empowerment, and they stand in dire need of comprehensive governance that encompasses international scholarship opportunities, agricultural training programs, access to soft loans for small and medium enterprises, and effective amnesty initiatives aimed at quelling youth agitation.
“In this light, Ohanaeze Ndigbo adopts a posture of constructive, yet forthright engagement as we call upon Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State.
“We implore him to fulfil the commitments made during the political rally in September 2023, wherein he pledged to secure overseas job opportunities for 4,000 Imo youths across Europe, Canada, and the United States.
“After 16 months of waiting in vain, the disquieting silence surrounding the realization of this promise has left the youth of Imo State feeling disillusioned and sceptical about the government’s genuine commitment to their future.
“In our pursuit of accountability, Ohanaeze Ndigbo stands ready to engage with pertinent stakeholders and allies to emphasize the urgency of actualizing Governor Uzodinma’s assurances.
“We envisage a concerted effort wherein negotiations with reputable firms across Europe and Canada would be pursued with vigour, creating sustainable employment pathways for the youth of Imo State.
“It is imperative to draw a resolute line in the sand. The era of unfulfilled political promises to the industrious Igbo populace must unequivocally come to an end.
“As we progress through 2025, we demand transparent, actionable commitments from our leaders across the Seven Igbo-speaking states.”
Ohanaeze Ndigbo called on all Southeast governors to follow the example set by Governor Nwifuru, stressing that empowering the region’s youth is crucial for the future security and prosperity of Southeast Nigeria.
The organization further called for a collective effort to create an environment where knowledge, innovation, and enterprise can thrive, enabling the youth to contribute positively to regional and national development.