Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to give young people a stronger voice in policymaking and decision-making across the state.
Mbah made the commitment at the International Conference Centre in Enugu during the 2026 Enugu State Youth Conference, held as part of activities marking International Youth Day. The conference focused on the theme, “Youth in Policymaking: A Shared Responsibility.”
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the governor praised the contributions of young people serving in his administration. He said their involvement had helped the government maximise the state’s resources and advance its development agenda.
The governor encouraged young people to pursue productive ventures, acquire relevant skills and contribute positively to the economic and social development of Enugu.
He specifically acknowledged the efforts of several young officials, including the Commissioners for Water Resources, Ben Collins Ndu Jr.; Youth and Sports, Lloyd Ekweremadu; Power and Solid Minerals, Franklin Ogbonna; and the Senior Special Assistant on Revenue Mobilisation, Adenike Adesina.
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Lloyd Ekweremadu, urged young residents to take advantage of opportunities to contribute to the state’s development. He encouraged them to participate in public discussions, engage in policymaking and channel their talents toward productive activities.
Ekweremadu also commended Governor Mbah for prioritising youth development and praised the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth and Students, Prisca Okeke, for her efforts in supporting young people.
In her remarks, Okeke said young people must move beyond expressing concerns about government policies and become active participants in shaping decisions that affect their lives.
She encouraged youths to develop useful skills, embrace available opportunities and support one another, stressing that the future of Enugu would depend largely on the choices and contributions of its younger generation.
The conference also featured the Enugu State Youth Business Pitch, where young entrepreneurs competed for financial support and other assistance.
Ugochi Nwonye of Eco-Cycler emerged first and received a N1 million prize, while Jessica Dinwoke of Edu-Play came second with N500,000. Emmanuel Ezeh of Cyber Switch finished third and received N300,000.
Ten finalists presented their business ideas before a judging panel, while four other young entrepreneurs received ovens to help strengthen their businesses. Among the beneficiaries were Wealth Emmanuel, Onyekachi Ogbodo and a physically challenged entrepreneur.
The beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the state government and organisers for providing support aimed at helping young people expand their businesses and become more economically productive.