In a world where youth empowerment is crucial for the growth and development of nations, the Abia South Youth Conference 2023 stood as a beacon of hope and inspiration. 

Held  at the prestigious Nobik Int'l Event Center in Aba, Abia State, the conference brought together a diverse assembly of young leaders, stakeholders, and policy makers from across the state, all united under the theme of "Unlocking the Future for Sustainable Development."

The theme itself encapsulates the very essence of the conference, emphasizing the importance of not only recognizing the potential within the youth but also empowering them to take charge of their destinies. The conference offered a unique platform to delve deep into the challenges and opportunities facing the youth of Abia State, unveiling a roadmap towards a brighter and more prosperous future.

The event was meticulously organized into plenary sessions and breakout groups, where experts and thought leaders from various fields shared their invaluable insights. 

Key topics such as economic development, digital innovation, and sustainable agriculture were passionately discussed, laying the foundation for future initiatives.

 Notably, one breakout group zeroed in on the critical issue of youth unemployment and brainstormed innovative ideas to provide meaningful job opportunities within Abia State.

A remarkable lineup of special guest speakers graced the occasion, each leaving an indelible mark on the attendees:
Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ihuoma Emeruwa, Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, underscored the imperative of youth empowerment and introduced the government's initiatives to support youth development. He emphasized the significance of investing in education and skills training, encouraging young people to become architects of their destinies.
Rt. Hon. Dr. Azeezat Yishawu, Speaker of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, offered a compelling narrative about the vital role of youth representation in government. Her personal experiences as a young woman in leadership resonated with the audience, inspiring young individuals to take an active role in shaping their communities and political landscape.
Chief Cosmos Ndukwe, Ph.D, Chairman of the occasion and a former presidential aspirant, advocated for investment in the future of Abia State. He called for accessible education, training, and job opportunities, all the while emphasizing the need for infrastructural and economic development within the state.

 

Hon. Standhope Okechukwu Jasper, Member representing Abia South Senatorial District in the Nigerian Youth Parliament, delivered a rousing speech. He championed youth empowerment and the importance of providing young people with opportunities to lead and make decisions that shape their future. His call for greater investments in youth education and skill development was met with enthusiastic applause.

Hon. Mrs. Victoria Dibunma Onwubiko, the "Mother of the Day," articulated the imperative of supporting and uplifting young people, reiterating the conference's commitment to youth development.
Hon. Hanson Amaechi, an esteemed speaker, delved into the significance of sustainable development in Abia State, proposing innovative solutions that balance economic growth with environmental protection. His speech centered on practical and sustainable strategies to tackle the state's challenges.
Hon. Peter Azubuike, the 2023 Labour Party candidate for Obingwa East State Constituency, passionately spoke about youth entrepreneurship and its potential to boost the local economy. He advocated for government policies that foster a supportive environment for young entrepreneurs and encouraged them to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys, promoting innovation and creativity among Abia State's youth.
Dr. Mrs. Atuoma Onwuemeodo, former Head of Department, Public Administration, Abia Polytechnic, shared her expertise on the importance of education and skill development for young individuals, drawing from her experiences as a leader in the education sector.
Prof. Ogbonna Friday Joel, the Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Abia State, underscored the necessity of investing in the petroleum and mineral resources sector. He outlined the state government's efforts to develop this sector and create employment opportunities for young people.

The conference featured an engaging panel session, where Queen Esther Ogechi Gabriel, Miss Globe 2021/2022 first runner-up, emphasized the critical role of education and empowerment for young women. Her inspiring remarks resonated with attendees, highlighting the importance of gender equality and female empowerment.
Ubani Chidirim Victoria, CEO of RIABANI INNOVATION, championed innovation and creativity as catalysts for youth empowerment. She encouraged attendees to think beyond traditional boundaries and harness their creativity to effect positive change.
Engr. Smith Sylvanus and Comr. Felix Duke Onyemaeze, State Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, contributed meaningful insights on governance, youth inclusiveness, and addressing societal insecurity. Their speeches stressed the importance of involving youths in leadership, policy formulation, and providing platforms to showcase their potentials.

The conference was not only about speeches but also about fostering conversations and discussions. The role of technology in youth empowerment was a hot topic. Panelists collectively recognized the power of technology as a tool for education, connection, and inspiration. Responsible and ethical use of technology was emphasized.
Another crucial theme explored was the role of the media in youth empowerment. The panelists highlighted the importance of positive role models in the media and discussed ways to increase the visibility of inspiring young individuals in the public eye.

 

The conference also featured entertaining interludes with students from Adventist Technical High School, Aba, enchanting the audience with their melodious voices. Renowned comedian Uncle Digestive added moments of laughter and relaxation. The gifted artist, BlissNaija, serenaded the attendees with his remarkable songs.
A memorable segment involved the cutting of a cake, symbolizing a new beginning in the journey towards an unlocked future.

At the closing of this inspirational gathering, Mrs. Peace Iyare, CEO of Peaceful Sky Travels and Tours Ltd, expressed heartfelt gratitude. She thanked the organizers, esteemed guests, and all participants for their contributions to the meaningful discussions. The atmosphere was charged with warmth and hope, leaving the attendees deeply inspired.

In conclusion, the Abia South Youth Conference 2023 was a resounding success. It served as a platform for young leaders and stakeholders to unite under a common theme of unlocking a brighter, more sustainable future. The commitment to making this an annual event highlights the dedication to holistic youth development in Abia South Senatorial District, Abia State, Nigeria, and beyond. 

By focusing on education, empowerment, innovation, and sustainability, the conference paved the way for a promising future where the youth take center stage in the growth and prosperity of their communities. The lessons and inspiration gleaned from this event will undoubtedly echo for years to come, motivating young individuals to seize the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow with confidence and determination.