Umuahia, Abia State —
Hon. Emeka Obioma, member representing Umuahia South Constituency in Abia State House of Assembly, has called for the creation of a comprehensive national strategy to tackle the growing challenges of unemployment and insecurity in Nigeria.
The lawmaker's speech comes amid a wave of concern over rising unemployment and worsening security situations across various regions, with Nigerians demanding swift and effective government action.
Obioma highlighted the urgent need for a coordinated approach that addresses both immediate and long-term issues, emphasizing that rising unemployment rates have intensified insecurity across the nation. He argued that joblessness among the youth contributes significantly to the increasing incidents of armed robbery, kidnapping, and other criminal activities that have plagued communities nationwide.
"We are seeing young people, with dreams and ambitions, turn to crime as a last resort because they have no opportunities for productive engagement," Obioma stated.
"The connection between unemployment and security challenges is clear. Without sustainable employment strategies, we are leaving our youth vulnerable, and by extension, the entire nation," he added.
In his statement, Obioma urged the federal government to adopt employment initiatives tailored to Nigeria's demographics, which are predominantly youthful.
He suggested investment in industries such as technology, agriculture, and renewable energy, which have the potential to generate millions of jobs across various skill levels. Obioma emphasized that such sectors, if properly funded and supported, could not only create employment but also reduce the incentive for young people to engage in crime.
Additionally, Obioma proposed increased collaboration between the federal government and private sector players to bolster job creation efforts.
By fostering partnerships with both local and international investors, he argued that Nigeria could unlock job opportunities that would support economic growth and reduce the burden on young Nigerians struggling to find work.
Beyond employment, Obioma addressed the need for a holistic security strategy that goes beyond policing and military presence. According to him, a successful security policy must also address the root causes of criminality, which often stem from social and economic hardship. Obioma suggested that security reform efforts should include community-based approaches that empower local stakeholders to take part in safeguarding their neighborhoods.
"Security is not just about deploying more officers; it's about understanding why insecurity exists and addressing it from the source. Community engagement and a stronger emphasis on local partnerships can go a long way in building trust between security agencies and the people," he argued.
The Umuahia South Rep also called for greater investment in security technology, including surveillance, communication systems, and intelligence sharing across state and federal levels. He argued that enhanced technological support for security forces would enable faster response times and better coverage in areas prone to criminal activity.
The lawmaker's call to action has garnered support from civil society groups who believe that a national strategy on employment and security is critical to Nigeria's stability and future prosperity. Analysts have also noted that the approach aligns with global best practices.
Obioma summarized with a reminder that the future of Nigeria depends on the well-being of its people.
"For Nigeria to thrive, we must invest in our youth, create jobs, and ensure that every citizen feels safe in their community. Employment and security are the foundations of a stable nation, and we must tackle these issues with unwavering resolve."
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