Former Deputy Governor of Imo State, Prince Eze Madumere, has called on Nigerian youths to embrace innovation, entrepreneurship and skills acquisition as critical tools for tackling unemployment and driving national development.
Madumere made the call while delivering a keynote address at the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, during the institution’s Skill Up Programme.
The former deputy governor, who is also the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Imo East Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections, urged young Nigerians to cultivate ingenuity, patriotism, creativity, resourcefulness, leadership qualities and a global mindset to remain competitive in today’s rapidly evolving world.
He also advised youths to shun social vices, the get-rich-quick mentality and other negative influences, stressing that hard work, discipline and continuous learning remain the foundation of lasting success.
According to him, the Skill Up Programme should produce graduates who are job creators rather than job seekers and leaders capable of providing practical solutions to societal challenges.
“History teaches us that no nation develops beyond the capacity of its youths. The future belongs to those who are prepared. The true wealth of any nation lies not beneath its soil but in the minds, creativity and productivity of its young people,” he said.
Madumere observed that technological advancements such as artificial intelligence and digital innovation are transforming industries across the globe, making skills and innovation more valuable than ever before.
He stressed that academic qualifications alone are no longer sufficient in today’s competitive economy, urging students to complement their certificates with practical skills and innovative thinking.
“Your academic qualification gives you knowledge, but your skills make you indispensable. Your certificate may open the door, but your competence keeps you inside the room. Your education gives you identity, but your innovation gives you influence,” he added.
The former deputy governor encouraged participants to seize opportunities provided by skills development initiatives, noting that entrepreneurship and digital competence remain key drivers of economic growth and sustainable development.
He expressed optimism that programmes such as Skill Up Nekede would produce a new generation of globally competitive innovators, entrepreneurs and transformational leaders capable of contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s future.
