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From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
The Enugu State governor, Peter Mbah has reiterated his administration’s commitment to harnessing the potential of young people and ensuring their active participation in policymaking and decision-making processes.
Mbah stated this at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, during the 2026 Enugu State youth conference, organised to commemorate International Youth Day, with the theme, “Youth in policymaking: A shared responsibility.”
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Chidiebere Onyia, Mbah expressed delight at the contributions of young people serving in his administration, saying they had made significant efforts towards developing the state’s resources.
He urged young people to engage in meaningful and productive ventures that would contribute to their personal development and the growth of the state.
The governor acknowledged the contributions of the Commissioner for Water Resources, Ben Collins Ndu Jr; Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Lloyd Ekweremadu; Commissioner for Power and Solid Minerals, Franklin Ogbonna; and Senior Special Assistant on Revenue Mobilisation, Adenike Adesina, to the development of the state.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Loyd Ekweremadu, urged young people to make themselves available for activities and initiatives that would promote growth and development in Enugu State.
He commended Mbah for prioritising the welfare and development of youths, while also praising the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth and Students, Prisca Okeke, for her commitment to improving the lives of young people in the state.
He said: “As young people, you have the responsibility to make Enugu State better. Be part of the policymaking process, always contribute to public discussions on national and state issues, and use your talents positively.”
In her welcome address, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth and Students, Prisca Okeke, thanked Governor Mbah for his efforts to make Enugu a conducive environment for young people to thrive.
She said the governor’s policies, programmes and projects had repositioned youths to become more creative and productive in their various endeavours.
Okeke also appreciated Mbah for sponsoring the conference and commended the guests, partners, youth stakeholders, students and other young people for contributing to the success of the event.
She said: “Enugu youths must recognise that the future of our state depends largely on the choices we make today. We must move beyond complaints and become active participants in shaping policies that affect our lives.
“I encourage every young person to acquire knowledge, build useful skills, support one another and take advantage of opportunities provided by government. Together, we can create a generation of confident, innovative and responsible young people who will contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of Enugu State.”
The event featured the presentation of prizes to winners of the 2026 Enugu State Youth Business Pitch.
The first prize of N1 million went to Ugochi Nwonye of Eco-Cycler, while Jessica Dinwoke of Edu-Play won N500,000 for the second position. Emmanuel Ezeh of Cyber Switch received N300,000 for emerging third.
Ten finalists also made oral presentations before a judging panel, while four young entrepreneurs received ovens to support their businesses.
Among the beneficiaries were Wealth Emmanuel, Onyekachi Ogbodo and a physically challenged entrepreneur, who expressed appreciation to the organisers for the support.
