ASABA — The Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Youth Mobilisation, Chief Lucky Blessing Odiakachukwu Abuah, has called on young people across the state to embrace education, innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership development as pathways to personal growth and sustainable prosperity.
Abuah made the call during the 2026 International Youth Day celebration organised by the Delta State Ministry of Youth Development at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.
He urged youths to cultivate discipline, develop their talents, pursue purposeful ambitions and acquire relevant skills that would enable them to become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities.
According to him, young people must move beyond conventional expectations and take advantage of emerging opportunities in technology, digital enterprise, vocational training and other productive sectors of the economy.
He described the 2026 International Youth Day theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” as a reflection of the common hopes of young people across different societies for quality education, decent employment, inclusion in decision-making and a sustainable future.
The governor’s aide noted that the annual celebration should serve as more than a ceremonial gathering, stressing the need for practical policies and sustained investments that address the challenges confronting young people.
Abuah also challenged youths to discard the perception that education is no longer worthwhile, maintaining that formal education, vocational skills, digital competence and practical experience remain essential to personal development and economic independence.
He emphasised that continuous learning and adaptability were increasingly important in a rapidly changing world where creativity and innovation could open doors to employment, entrepreneurship and wealth creation.
The SSA further highlighted the commitment of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration to youth development through the MORE Agenda, which focuses on Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.
He explained that the administration’s emphasis on human capital development, skills acquisition and enterprise support was aimed at expanding opportunities and equipping young people to participate actively in the state’s economic and social development.
Abuah also acknowledged the importance of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that youth-focused opportunities and empowerment initiatives should be embraced by young people seeking to improve their livelihoods.
He encouraged Delta youths to remain focused on their aspirations, shun distractions and recognise that effective leadership is built on discipline, perseverance, service and consistent self-improvement.
The governor’s aide commended Governor Oborevwori for prioritising youth empowerment and human capacity development, describing sustained investment in young people as essential to building a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive society.
He called for stronger collaboration between government, educational institutions, private-sector organisations and community stakeholders to nurture talent, promote innovation and create an enabling environment for young entrepreneurs and aspiring leaders.
The celebration underscored the importance of youth participation in governance and sustainable development, while highlighting the need to translate the aspirations of young people into practical opportunities for growth, employment and leadership.
