Forum of Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants and Special Assistants to Nigerian governors visits Amb. Ihenetu
…Delibrates on Youth empowerment
Penultimate weekend, the Igbo diaspora leader in the Republic of Ghana — Onyendu Amb. Dr. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu — was honoured to receive a high-powered delegation from the Forum of Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants and Special Assistants to Governors in Nigeria, who paid him a courtesy visit to discuss issues bordering on youth development, economic empowerment, and national growth.
As captured by his Country Director Media and Strategy, Njoku Macdonald Obinna, the delegation led by the Special Adviser on Youth Affairs to Governor Hope Uzodimma, of Imo State— Hon. Eric Uwakwe — had Haunwa Hassan Musa, who also serves as Secretary of the Forum, Oyebuchi O. Chukwu, and Prisca Okeke, among other members of the forum.
During the visit, they held an extensive and forward-looking discussion on the urgent need to reposition Nigeria’s youth for national productivity and economic relevance. The Igbo leader emphasized that sustainable national development cannot rely solely on government employment, but must be driven by a strong partnership between government and the private sector.
He further noted that government must intentionally support private individuals and investors in establishing industries across the country. In many developed economies, industries are not primarily government-owned, yet they thrive because the state provides enabling policies, access to funding, and a stable environment for businesses to grow. He stressed that Nigeria can achieve similar success if proper support systems are put in place.
He also encouraged a renewed focus on agriculture as a powerful tool for youth empowerment, urging young people to embrace innovation in agro- allied business, think creatively, and explore opportunities beyond conventional employment structures. According to him, waiting endlessly for government jobs will not solve the unemployment challenge; instead, youths must be encouraged to become job creators.
The visit was also an opportunity to exchange ideas on how policy makers can better align with grassroots realities, ensuring that youth empowerment programs are practical, impactful, and sustainable.
In conclusion, the engagement ended on a positive note with a shared commitment to advancing policies that promote entrepreneurship, industrial growth, and youth inclusion in national development. Together, they agreed that the future of Nigeria depends on empowering its young population through opportunities, innovation, and strategic collaboration.
