Abia Deputy Governor Reaffirms Support for Christian Youths, Highlights Youth-Focused Reforms
Abia State Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, has commended the leadership of the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN), Abia State Chapter, for their proactive involvement in governance, strong moral leadership, and unwavering commitment to peace and community development.
The commendation came during a courtesy visit by YOWICAN’s executive members to the Deputy Governor at Government House, Umuahia, where they discussed opportunities for collaboration in youth empowerment, civic engagement, and ongoing developmental programs across the state.
Speaking during the visit, Emetu emphasized the Alex Otti-led administration’s commitment to creating platforms for youth advancement through targeted programs. He cited recent initiatives such as the training of over 1,000 Abia youths at CSS Farms in Nasarawa—with start-up support provided to participants—and the launch of the Abia State Leadership Academy Boot Camp, which aims to develop 1,000 youths aged 16–20. The inaugural cohort of 250 participants is currently undergoing leadership and civic education training.
“These initiatives are not symbolic—they are strategic. They represent our long-term vision to cultivate a generation of responsible and capable leaders,” the Deputy Governor stated.
He encouraged YOWICAN to remain steadfast in its support for the present administration, assuring them that government projects would continue to reflect the needs of the people, despite financial constraints.
“This administration, under Governor Alex Otti, is focused on sustainable reforms and expanding opportunities for young people in Abia. We are delivering results without making noise. In under two years, we’ve cleared over 60% of the debt inherited from previous administrations, all without securing any new loans,” Emetu said.
He further noted the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, where youths, women, and grassroots stakeholders play key roles in decision-making and development.
Earlier in his address, Apostle Dr. Ogbuka Uche, immediate past Chairman of YOWICAN Abia State, congratulated Governor Alex Otti and Deputy Governor Emetu for their transformative achievements in office, particularly in restoring credibility, transparency, and service delivery across various sectors.
“There is no gainsaying the fact that Abia has witnessed a clear shift from years of stagnation to progressive governance. The feedback we get from churches, civil servants, pensioners, and teachers all point to a renewed sense of trust in leadership,” he stated.
Describing YOWICAN as Nigeria’s foremost ecumenical youth platform, Dr. Uche noted that the group serves as a bridge between faith, governance, and society—promoting values that align with good governance and community development.
He called for strategic collaboration with the government in strengthening civic education and voter awareness campaigns across the state and requested the provision of a utility bus to support the organization’s grassroots mobilization, especially ahead of the continuous voter registration exercise.
“Educating and mobilizing young voters is critical to sustaining the gains made by this administration. Addressing voter apathy through targeted outreach will help deepen democracy and ensure continued delivery of good governance,” he added.
In his closing remarks, the newly elected Chairman of YOWICAN, Rev. Ihebirika Nwandu, expressed gratitude to the Deputy Governor for the audience granted and affirmed the group’s full support for the current administration.
“As someone who has witnessed the renewed sense of peace and purpose under this administration, I can boldly say that Governor Otti’s leadership has brought lasting impact to the people of Abia. YOWICAN will continue to support efforts that promote good governance and democratic continuity,” he said.
He further emphasized the organization’s commitment to raising awareness among youths on the importance of participating in the electoral process and choosing leaders who embody integrity and vision.
