Young people across Ogoniland have called for greater unity, peace and collective action to build a more prosperous and sustainable future for their communities.
The call was made in Port Harcourt during activities marking International Youth Day, held under the global theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”
The event brought together young people from different communities and backgrounds, with discussions focused on shared challenges and aspirations, including peace, responsible leadership, youth empowerment, environmental sustainability and economic development.
The occasion also featured the inauguration of the newly elected executives of the Ogoni National Youth Congress (ONYC), under the theme, “One Ogoni, One Future: Uniting for Peace, Leadership and Sustainable Development.”
Speaking at the event, ONYC National President, Mene Hon Kpakol Aleema Kpakol, said Ogoni’s diversity should be a source of strength, but stressed that unity would be critical to the region’s future.
He said the Congress provides a platform for community youth leaders, young professionals, entrepreneurs, students, artisans and other young people to participate in shaping Ogoniland’s future.
The new leadership identified youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, education, environmental sustainability, peacebuilding and cultural preservation as key areas of focus.
The Congress said it aims to build a united, peaceful, innovative and prosperous Ogoni where young people can contribute meaningfully to community development.
The youths also expressed support for renewed dialogue on longstanding issues affecting the Ogoni people, including political, economic, environmental and social justice concerns.
They said constructive engagement remained important in addressing these challenges and urged stakeholders to participate in dialogue with mutual respect and commitment to the common good.
The Congress further raised concerns about threats to young people’s peace and livelihoods, including banditry, drug addiction, pipeline vandalism, cultism and other social vices.
It called for community-centred efforts to tackle the challenges and create an environment where young people can live, work and pursue their aspirations in peace and dignity.
The inauguration of the new ONYC executives therefore comes amid a broader appeal for Ogoni youths to overcome differences and focus on their shared aspirations for peace, opportunity, dignity and sustainable development.
