The traditional ruler of Amizi-Olokoro in Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State, Eze Cyril Ogbenna, has sought an end to empowering youths with tricycles (Keke), motorcycles (Okada) and allied vehicles, saying the practice would lead to dearth of artisans with crucial skills.
He argued that rather than continue with the present component of empowerment, youths should be sponsored to acquire practical skills that will position them to engage in meaningful ventures thereafter.
The monarch decried the decreasing number of mechanics, vulcanizers, bricklayers, tailors and other artisans in the communities as youths have embraced commercial tricycle, motorcycle and motor transportation businesses that do not require long apprenticeship.
He said politicians and organisations give these quick money yielding vehicles to the youths who as a result, consider learning skills a waste of time.
“ If the politicians, government and non-governmental organisations continue to empower the youths with tricycles and motorcycles, these problems will increase.
“So I am calling on those that empower youths to have a rethink. They should alternately establish skills acquisition/vocational training centres, revive moribund workshops, create and equip new ones, which are better and more lasting ways to empower our youths,” he said.