The Edo State Government has said it is grooming youths in the State for leadership, empowering them with the skills and tools to thrive and become globally competitive.

The Chief of Staff to the Edo State Governor, Dr. Osaigbovo Iyoha, said this when he received the National President of Niger Delta Students Union Government (NIDSUG), Comrade Scott Ogunseri, and his executives from the nine Niger Delta States, who were on a courtesy visit to his office, at the Government House, in Benin City.

Iyoha, who identified the indispensable role of youths in societal development, urged the union to brace up and make themselves ready to take up leadership through active engagement and participation in the country’s political process.

Commending the leadership of the union for their achievements since assumption of office, he pledged the state government’s continuous support and partnership.

He stated, “Edo is busy now as the political activities in the State have increased and the State is on top of the political ladder in Nigeria as the next election in Nigeria will take place in Edo State.

“We are doing a lot as we round up this administration to finish well and very strongly as there are lots of projects we have started and want to finish and conclude before leaving office.

“The youths should be ready to participate and not stay aloof in politics. They should not say we are not politicians. Let's look at the big picture ahead as we have a long way to go. Look at the candidates in the election, look at the one you want to be like, the one you think can do the job, the person you feel will make the Country and State a better place for you.”

Iyoha further charged, “This should not be about the party but the person. It should be about our tomorrow as we have to get things right. We are not doing well as a Country and need to take the Country back.

“We should not stay back but rather have our voter’s card to vote for the right person and change the Country. We are stakeholders in our own future.”

He added, “Your programme, enhancing students in the area of politics is key as it’s one of the areas we have failed as a nation. Participating in school politics prepares you for political life outside the campus and helps you to stand on a firm ground.”

Commending the association for embarking on the campaign against social vices in society and assuring of the government’s continued support, the Chief of Staff said, “It’s important we skill up side by side with whatever degree we have as individuals. We should make sure we skill up in some areas to keep up with whatever challenges we face economically. We should look at other areas where we can improve our lives rather than relying on our degree alone.”

Earlier, Comrade Scott Ogunseri thanked the Edo State Government for its support and encouragement which has served as motivation for the executives’ performance in the last five months in office.