In a groundbreaking move to combat rising unemployment and youth restlessness, two Nigerians residing in the United States and Germany have announced an ambitious youth empowerment program. The Nchoke Skills Acquisition Initiative, conceived by Mr. John Durumba and Dr. Azubuike Erinugha, is poised to transform the lives of about 2,000 youths in their community by equipping them with various skills.
The initiative, set to kick off in the Nchoke Autonomous Community in Ideato South council of Imo State, Nigeria, is a testament to the duo’s dedication to social responsibility and community development. With an estimated budget of N50 million, the project aims to offer a lifeline to underprivileged youths, steering them away from societal ills like drug addiction and crime.
Durumba, speaking about the project’s inception and objectives, emphasized the stark contrast between the proactive youth policies he observed in Western nations and the situation back home. His experiences in Germany and America highlighted the importance of long-term planning for youth development, an element he found lacking in Nigeria. “If we can adequately plan for our children and youths the way they do for theirs, our young ones will compete favorably with their peers across the world,” he stated.
So far, 25 youths have been selected to inaugurate the scheme, with an inclusive focus on women, who Durumba notes are often more committed and result-oriented.
Dr. Erinugha echoed these sentiments, underscoring the initiative’s broader vision of curbing social vices and unemployment through skill acquisition. He outlined the program’s approach: “The mandate is to recruit and register participants; organize hands-on sessions to expose them to skills and entrepreneurial opportunities, building potential careers and self-development tools towards youth empowerment.”
The program’s long-term vision includes continuous provision of skill opportunities for Nigerian youths. The beneficiaries, upon completion of their training, will be equipped with start-up tools to facilitate their entrepreneurial journey.
The launch event saw the attendance of notable community figures, including Chief Fidelity Ezewike, Chief Joachim Olumba, Eze Christopher Obieshi, Barr. Tony Duruzo, Mrs. Clara Duru, Mr. Chigozie Ibeke, and renowned Nollywood actor, Chief Austin Awujor. Olumba, in his keynote address, emphasized the enduring value of skill acquisition, deeming it as crucial as education for self-growth and survival.
This initiative represents a significant step in addressing the challenges faced by Nigerian youth, offering a template for diaspora engagement in national development. It not only provides immediate opportunities for skill development but also lays the groundwork for sustainable, community-driven growth. As these two Nigerians in the diaspora take up the mantle of change, their actions serve as a beacon of hope, potentially inspiring similar efforts across the nation and continent.
