Delta at 35: Ukuanovwe hails youths, demands stronger investment in their future

Rights activist, indigenous language advocate and Delta State Youth Leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Prince Ukuanovwe Godstime Oj, has commended Delta youths for their resilience, courage and peaceful disposition as the state marks its 35th anniversary.

Ukuanovwe, in a goodwill message to commemorate the 35th anniversary of Delta State, described young Deltans as a critical force behind the peace, stability and unity that the state has enjoyed since its creation.

He said the responsible and peaceful conduct of Delta youths over the years had contributed significantly to preserving the cohesion of the state, stressing that sustained peace remained essential to its development.

According to him, Delta could have faced serious instability if its youths had consistently embraced violence, division and other disruptive tendencies.

He, however, said the resilience and patience demonstrated by young Deltans should not be taken for granted, urging governments at both the federal and state levels to prioritise the welfare and future of the younger generation.

The ADC youth leader called for increased investment in youth empowerment, education, entrepreneurship, skills acquisition and employment opportunities, as well as greater inclusion of young people in governance and decision-making processes.

Ukuanovwe also urged the government to ensure that youth development programmes were properly designed and implemented in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), saying such investments would strengthen the social and economic future of Delta State.

He stressed that the energy, creativity, resourcefulness and resilience of young Deltans represented one of the state’s greatest assets, adding that government must create the right environment for youths to convert their potential into productive contributions to society.

“Investing in young Deltans today is an investment in the future of the state. Our youths must be given the opportunity, support and platform to contribute meaningfully to the development of Delta,” he said.

While congratulating Deltans on the 35th anniversary of the state’s creation, Ukuanovwe called for renewed commitment to peace, unity and collective development across the state.

“Happy 35th Anniversary to Delta State. Our youths remain our strength, our resilience remains our identity, and our unity must remain our greatest asset,” he said.

He urged young Deltans to continue to promote peace and responsible citizenship while demanding accountability and policies that would create a better future for the people of the state.