The President of One Youth Global, Mr. UcheChukwu Agbo, has expressed concern over Nigeria’s worsening security situation, revealing that insecurity prevented several students from across Africa from participating physically in the Spark Nation 3.0 leadership programme held in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
Speaking with journalists during the opening of the programme at the permanent site of Ebonyi State University, Agbo said although 192 schools from West and Central Africa registered for the championship, many participants were unable to attend after their parents raised concerns over safety in Nigeria.
According to him, schools from Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Benin Republic, Chad, Liberia, and other African countries had initially indicated interest in the programme, but insecurity discouraged many families from allowing their children to travel.
“The students wanted to come, but their parents were unwilling to expose them to such risks,” Agbo said.
Speaking on the theme, “Raising Change Makers Across Africa,” Agbo explained that Spark Nation 3.0 is designed to nurture young leaders equipped with entrepreneurial, leadership and problem-solving skills capable of addressing Africa’s growing challenges.
He described insecurity as one of the continent’s greatest threats, stressing that the initiative seeks to raise a generation that will champion peace, innovation and sustainable development across Africa.
“Our mission is to develop young Africans who will not only create economic opportunities but also build societies where people can live without fear,” he said.
The programme featured leadership boot camps, debate and quiz competitions involving students from more than ten African countries. Organisers said the initiative is expected to impact 250 schools, over 3,000 students, 660 teachers, while expanding access to quality education for more than 560 African youths.
Representing Governor Francis Nwifuru, the Chief of Staff, Prof. Emmanuel Echiegu, reaffirmed the Ebonyi State Government’s commitment to youth empowerment, quality education, entrepreneurship and security.
He urged young Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and actively participate in the nation’s democratic process.
“We have created opportunities for young people through skills acquisition, entrepreneurship support, infrastructure development and appointments into government. But these opportunities can only make meaningful impact if young people actively participate in governance,” he said.
Also speaking, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics) of Ebonyi State University, Prof. Ike-Elechi Ogba, advised participants to reduce excessive social media engagement and focus on innovation and practical solutions capable of transforming Africa.
Similarly, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Michael Aja Nwachukwu, described insecurity as one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges, calling for practical solutions, including renewed discussions on state policing and community-based security initiatives.
The event attracted scholars, policymakers, youth leaders and distinguished personalities, including renowned author Prof. Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, as participants explored strategies for building a safer, more innovative and economically prosperous Africa.
