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Unemployment: Methodist Bishops urge support for youths in entrepreneurship

L-R: Archbishop of Umuahia, Rt. Revd. Raphael Opoko, the Secretary of Conference Rt. Rev. Babatunde Taiwo; Prelate, Methodist Church Nigeria, His eminence Oliver Abba; Archbishop of Lagos Archdiocese, Rt. Rev. Obafemi Adeleye and the Archbishop of Lagos, Rt. Rev. Isaac Olawuyi during the conference.

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Bishops of Methodist Church, Nigeria have called on government, philanthropies, corporate organisations and the society at large to encourage more youths in entrepreneurship.

They gave the call at the end of 41st council of Bishops of Methodist Church, Nigeria held at Hoares Memorial Methodist Cathedral, Archdiocese of Lagos Mainland, Sabo, Lagos with theme, “Arise and Build.”

In a communique issued at the end of the meeting, the Methodist Bishops said the needed motivation would provide the necessary platforms, enable many youths to conquer their mindsets, step out and engage their minds and hands positively in order to create goods and services that would offer values and also address the alarming rate of unemployment in the country.

The bishops further explained that when the needed reforms were made, many youths would be gainfully employed, resulting in poverty alleviation and drastic reduction of bandits’ cells and vulnerable citizens across the country.

They also called on the government at all levels, including the private sector to implement comprehensive measures to combat the issue of ‘Japa’ syndrome among Nigerian youths, stressing that one of the keys to curbing the “Japa syndrome” was to create an environment in Nigeria where young people see a promising future and feel a sense of belonging and opportunity in their own country.

According to the communique which was read by the Prelate, His Eminence, Dr Oliver Ali Aba: “The Council acknowledges the vital role of youth in society and urges them to harness their talents and abilities for positive impact.

“Unfortunately, negative stereotypes about youth prevail, and therefore, caution and care are essential. To promote youth development and empowerment, the Council advocates for collaboration between the church, government, and society. It encourages youth to participate in politics and contribute to the country’s progress. The government is expected to take the lead in empowering youth and unlocking their potential. By doing so, we can build a brighter future for all.

“The Council expresses alarm at the high rate of unemployment among young people, which is linked to various social vices. We urge governments and parents to take responsibility for empowering their children. The Council is concerned about the rising cases of teenage pregnancy, cultism, fraud, exam malpractices, political thuggery, prostitution, drug abuse, and other criminal activities among youth.

“We warn that if left unaddressed, these issues may lead to chaos and anarchy in the country, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

“The Council urges the Federal Government to take immediate action to address the “Japa Syndrome” (citizen migration) by creating an environment that encourages citizens to stay and contribute their skills to national development. We call on the National Orientation Agency and other organizations to play a significant role in this effort.

“The Council addresses domestic violence, acknowledging the economic challenges that may contribute to it. We encourage families to speak out against toxic relationships and support efforts to amend the constitution to protect women. The Council advocates for a collaborative approach to prevent domestic violence, involving families, religious institutions, and individuals.

“We also emphasize the importance of reporting incidents to the authorities, serving as whistleblowers to ensure action is taken to prevent domestic violence.”

The Council urged all believers to “Arise and Build” in these challenging times, saying they were called to rise above discouragement, fear, and despair, and to build a nation grounded in faith, hope, and love.

The communique also encouraged believers to emulate Nehemiah’s courage, vision, and perseverance in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, saing “Let us work together to build a Nigeria where justice, peace, and righteousness reign.”

The Council commended the Federal Government of Nigeria, led by President Bola Tinubu, for its efforts to address the country’s challenges, and advised governments at all levels to consider the impact of economic policies on grassroots citizens, noting that Nigeria needed visionary leaders who prioritised citizens’ interests over personal gain.

The Council further called on the government to take practical steps to alleviate citizens’ current challenges.