By Ikenna Orioha
Next Generation Nigeria, a forward-thinking development initiative, has launched the Imo Development Champions (IDC) Competition to motivate youth to drive development within their communities. The unveiling took place on Wednesday at Rockview Hotel in Owerri, attended by leaders of youth organizations, student unions, and other key stakeholders in the state.
Ugochukwu Williams, the founder of the Imo Development Champions Competition, explained that the initiative aims to inspire young people by equipping them with the skills necessary to be productive, resourceful, creative, and development-oriented. He emphasized that empowering youth, who are crucial to societal growth, with relevant skills and financial support for entrepreneurial activities can lead to monetary independence, reduce insecurity, and enhance community development and social stability.
“Imo Development Champions helps young people discover their purpose, passion, and place in Imo State and beyond,” Ugochukwu said. “By developing their character and confidence, we equip them to face the future with resilience. This initiative not only benefits them but also the communities they live in. IDC stimulates creative developmental projects among young people on issues affecting our nation, Imo State, and their local communities.”
Ugochukwu reiterated that the NGO is dedicated to investing in young people’s potential to effect positive change, contributing to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which aims to reduce poverty, vulnerability, and underdevelopment.
He encouraged youths aged 18 to 40 to apply to IDC, enabling them to become Development Ambassadors for their local government areas. The best trainees in community service and development projects, such as road grading, borehole installation, and school renovation, will be rewarded with ₦500,000. The program will select two participants per local government area and run throughout 2024.
