The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Rivers State branch, has called on governments at all levels to run an all-inclusive administration that empowers youths rather than exploiting them for criminal activities.
Chairperson of FIDA Rivers, Tamunoibuemi Life-JimGeorge, made the appeal during a community sensitisation outreach at Firisika Polo Marine Base in Port Harcourt Local Government Area, to commemorate the 2025 International Youth Day.
Life-JimGeorge stressed that youths should not be seen merely as tools in the hands of political or community leaders to perpetrate crimes.
She urged government, non-governmental organisations, and community leaders to engage young people wisely, empower them with relevant skills, and include them in developmental activities.
“We met with youths, women, and children to remind them that they must be champions of anything good and positive. The idea that youths are leaders of tomorrow has changed; they are leaders of today.
“They must take advantage of every learning and opportunity to better their lives so they are not used and discarded by privileged people in society,” she said.
She also encouraged young people to embrace technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), as a means of self-development and to prepare for emerging opportunities.
Community Development Leader of Firisika Polo, Tekena Dikibo, commended FIDA’s sensitisation visit, noting that the community leadership had taken steps to rid the area of hard drugs and continues to educate youths on positive living.
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“There is no community member selling hard drugs here, though some still go outside to get them. Our focus is constant education and sensitisation to make our youths better citizens.”
Justice Jack, Youth Leader of Firisika Polo, represented by Theophilus Odidi, called on the government to revamp the education sector, stressing that access to quality education and proper orientation would help youths make better life choices.
“Revamping the education sector will give youths access to the knowledge they lack and guide them successfully in life. Proper orientation from an early stage is key to achieving positive change.”
The event formed part of FIDA’s activities to promote youth empowerment, peaceful communities, and sustainable development in Rivers State.
