By Lucy Ogalue
Mr Casmir Irekamba has emerged as the National President of the Unemployed Youth Association of Nigeria (UYAN).
The National Executive Council of the association said in a statement on Monday that Irekamba emerged in an election conducted on Nov.
26 in Abuja, and would serve for the next four years.
The statement also quoted Irekamba after taking his oath of office, as calling for inclusiveness of the organised unemployed youth, in Nigeria affairs.
He tasked the government and private sector on youth employment, empowerment and development.
Those elected alongside Irekamba were Mr Shehu Adamu, Deputy President; Mr Chidi Leo Chielo, National Treasurer; Mr Daniel Margima, National Publicity Secretary and Mr Yakubu John, as General Secretary.
Others were Hallimatu Ibrahim National Financial Secretary; Mr Tony Akhigbe, National Legal Adviser; Mr Segun Olawale, Deputy General Secretary and Kemi Adebayo, National Welfare Officer.
Irekamba stressed the need for inclusiveness of UYAN in the national planning and budgeting to achieve economic growth and stability.
He urged the government and the private sector to encourage entrepreneurial mindset through mentorship programmes, access to finance schemes and business incubation.
Irekamba called for supports that can empower youths to create their own employment opportunities, while contributing to economic growth of the country.
“Nigeria’s youth unemployment rate is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention.
“With the nation’s largest demographic group facing limited job opportunities and an uncertain future, it is crucial for UYAN to key into government initiatives and programmes aimed at creating job opportunities for the Unemployed youths in Nigeria.
“Unfortunately, the unemployment stands at an alarming rate of above 34 per cent.
“This figure does not only highlights the magnitude of the problem but also raises concerns about its long-term consequences against economic growth and social stability, youth restiveness and revenging insecurity in the country,” the statement quoted Irekamba as saying.
According to Irekamba, tackling youth unemployment requires a comprehensive approach that focuses on creating more job opportunities while equipping young people with relevant skills needed in today’s competitive job market.
Irekamba, while urging the government on youth employment, empowerment and development, charged the unemployed youth in the country to be peaceful and purposeful at all times.
========Edited by Emmanuel Afonne
