The National President of the Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, has tasked the newly elected Abia State executive of the Council, to prioritize the development and restoration of the South East region in their four-year tenure.
Speaking during the OYC convention held in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, Comr. Igboayaka described the emergence of the new leadership in Abia as a significant opportunity to recover and rebuild “Ala Igbo”.
He emphasized that the South East, which has experienced various degrees of underdevelopment, must now be a central focus for transformative initiatives.
According to him, the new executive must commit themselves to rebuilding the South East region, especially by empowering youths, revamping the educational system and fostering inclusive participation at all levels.
The OYC National President declared that it was time to get back the South East and urged the newly elected leaders to serve with dedication, while assuring them of the National Council’s full support in ensuring the success of their administration.
Igboayaka also emphasized the importance of mobilizing more youths into the OYC fold and building more schools to secure the future of Igbo children.
In his speech, the newly elected Chairman of OYC Abia State, Comrade Eugene Okonta, expressed gratitude to the youths of Abia for the trust and mandate bestowed upon him. He pledged to lead with dedication and implement strategic measures that would reposition the Council as a unifying force for Igbo youths across the state.
Okonta disclosed he was aware of the responsibilities that come with the new position and assured that he would give his best for the collective good of the Igbo youths and the entire Igbo nation.
The new Abia OYC chairman, further outlined his administration’s plan to activate the statutory structures of the OYC across the state, from the state to local government, ward, and community levels, emphasizing that the grassroots approach would encourage broader youth participation and foster unity.
New OYC chairman,Abia State, Comr Eugene Okonta
He also stressed the importance of engaging stakeholders, governments, security agencies, private organizations, NGOs, and religious bodies, to combat crime and reduce social vices among Igbo youths.
While calling on federal and state lawmakers, Comr Okonta advocated for youth-friendly legislation and empowerment programs that would support the aspirations of young people across Ala Igbo.
He echoed the theme of the convention, “Mobilizing Igbo Youths in Abia for Social Reengineering as a Means to Restore Peace,” stressing its relevance in the current socio-economic climate.
Meanwhile, the OYC Chairman made a passionate appeal to Igbo youths to shun crime and drug abuse, reminding them that the challenges of the economy should not lead them to criminality.
“As we journey toward the Igbo nation of our dream, let us remain resolute, committed, and hopeful. The promised land is near,” he added.
The convention ended with renewed optimism for a better future for Igbo youths under the leadership of Comrade Eugene Okonta and his executive team.
