In his remarkable display of dedication to the youth of West Africa, the former Leader of Enugu State House of Assembly and philanthropist, Hon. Ikechukwu Ezeugwu delivered a compelling keynote speech at the West Africa Youth Symposium (WAYS-2023), held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs , Abuja on the 3rd of October, 2023. The event attracted prominent individuals and government representatives from across the West African sub-region.
Titled "Moving from Policy to Action; Forging Strategic Partnerships with Young People," Hon. Ikechukwu Ezeugwu used his speech to encourage African Youths to hold their governments accountable and leverage Nigeria's "Not too Young to Run Policy" to explore their potential. He invoked the historical precedence of youths being at the helm of affairs during the pre-independence and independence eras in Nigeria, emphasizing that the youth are a dynamic force of innovation and have the potential to catalyze political change.
He stressed the importance of mutual trust between the youth and their respective governments across West Africa, calling on young people to actively engage with government ministries and ensure the implementation of youth policies through budgetary releases.
Hon. Ezeugwu also highlighted the importance of learning the process of becoming successful rather than merely imitating the lifestyle of successful individuals . While underscoring the significance of partnerships between the youths and their respective governments in fostering lasting change in the West African youth space, he emphasised the need for trust, communication, and a shared vision for a win-win situation for the youth and government.
Hon. Ikechukwu Ezeugwu's Keynote Speech at WAYS2023 reads in part....
"Numerous policies are currently in effect, and dedicated government ministries oversee youth-related matters. Budgetary allocations are usually made available to these ministries. The responsibility falls upon young people to actively monitor and follow up with the concerned MDA to ensure that the allocated funds are put into use for the purpose they are mearnt, a critical step towards policy implementation"
"In the absence of youth proactivity, the system may be slow to recognize their presence. There is nothing bad in the youths forming a strong pressure group. When there is no trust, there can't be a genuine relationship. To this end, our youths should trust their respective governments throughout the West African region"
"Young people serve as a dynamic and creative force of innovation. Throughout history, they have consistently played a pivotal role in catalyzing significant changes in political systems worldwide. During Nigeria's pre-independence and independence eras, political leaders emerged from the ranks of young individuals. Today, our youths are even better equipped as a result of the internet and should hence not hesitate to unleash their potential in building our sub-region"
"Nigeria's 'Not too Young to Run' policy, initiated in May 2018, sets age thresholds for political offices: 25 to 30 years for House of Representatives and State Houses of Assembly, 30 to 35 years for Senate and Governorship positions, and 30 to 40 years for the Presidency. This policy recognizes that youths constitute 60% of Nigeria's population" he said.
● He emphasized key principles that the youths should always bear in mind in their everyday life. Reminding them that "'Hasty climbers make sudden fall" and that "You can't make an omelette without breaking an egg" He urged young people to focus on learning the process of how to become successful rather than merely imitating the life style of successful individuals.
● Hon. Ezeugwu stressed that creating and maintaining partnerships is not always easy. It requires trust, effective communication, and a shared vision for the future. But when executed correctly, partnerships can become a potent force for positive change in the West African youth sector, unlocking the potential of millions of young individuals and driving enduring transformation.
The West Africa Youth Symposium (WAYS-2023) honoured exemplary individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields and in our Youths . Notable dignitaries recognized at the event included Prof. Abdalla Yakub of Cambridge University, United Kingdom, Dr. Regina Dimlong, Rear Admiral Jamila A.S. Malafa Mni, Prof. Augustine Uchechukwu Nweze, Col. Dr. Hassan Riba, Dr. Favour Ugwuanyi Mni, Hajiya Mamal Halima Manga, Hajiya Maryam Salihu Ibrahim, and many others.
The West Africa Youth Congress, often regarded as the "West African Voice," is committed to addressing challenges in the West African sub-region, promoting economic and technological advancements driven by young people, and supporting the achievement of sustainable development goals. Their core values encompass Youth Development, Girl Child Development, Conflict Resolution, and Literacy Promotion.
WAYS-2023 is a testament to the West Africa Youth Congress's ongoing dedication to nurturing the region's youth and fostering outstanding leadership across various domains. The event continues to serve as a beacon of hope for positive change in the West African sub-region.
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