The Ooni of Ife, Oba Aludeyeye Ogunwusi, has declared that unity is necessary for socio-economic development because of its capability to impact positively on Nigeria and solidify the nation’s bond.
Ogunwusi said this on Friday when he visited the Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, in Government House, Umuahia.
He said peace and oneness remain the greatest achievement of any society, adding that the strength on Nigeria’s unity is in its diversity.
Ogunwusi said he is in Abia to support the state government because of its passion for things that are positive.
“The earlier we realise that we are all spiritually linked the better for us. We must chart a positive course for our teeming youths and make this country a better place. “We are praying for you and we don’t want any war or disintegration of the nation. We know that the youths of Abia will stand together to chart a proper course to make things better,” he said.
The monarch called on relevant agencies to evolve reorientation programmes that would change the thought process of youths because they were the future and energy of Nigeria.
In his response, Ikpeazu said Nigeria has the potential to be one of the biggest countries because of the human and natural resources that abound in the country. The government, according to Ikpeazu, remains committed to empowering Abia youths to enable them become self-reliant.
He said: “The state government has created an office dedicated to providing empowerment for youths with a minimum loan of N250,000 to start small business.
“This is our way of practically supporting our youths that are interested in eking out a living. I believe that is how we can curb youth restiveness,” he said.
The governor thanked the monarch for offering prayers for the state, adding that his leadership style is commendable. –
- NAN