Former governor of Anambra State and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has called for urgent value re-orientation among Nigerian youths, urging them to shun the growing get-rich-quick mentality and instead embrace hard work and entrepreneurship.
Obi made this call on Friday during the maiden edition of the Amatutu Community Entrepreneurship and Empowerment Summit held in his hometown of Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Addressing participants at the event, Obi lamented the adverse societal impact of the desperation among some young people to amass wealth through illegitimate means.
“In 1957, my father owned three Mercedes Benz cars among other properties. Today, none of those properties exist,” he said. “I do not believe in acquiring wealth all over the world that is not for your immediate need — what for? If people understand life in a simple manner, the urge to get rich by all means will not exist, and life will be more meaningful to all.”
He encouraged youths to invest their time and energy in skills acquisition, trading, and entrepreneurship, which he described as more sustainable paths to prosperity.
The event, organized by Ms. Aisha Edward-Maduagwu, Director of the Sickle Cell Orphanage and Underprivileged Home in Agulu, saw the empowerment of 50 individuals — including women and youths — with cash, equipment, and tools to support their small businesses and dreams.
Obi commended the initiative and assured his continued support for programs that uplift the indigent, widows, and aspiring entrepreneurs.
The summit featured remarks from Prof. Chinyere Okunna, who served as the Special Guest Speaker. She urged the organisers not to relent in their efforts to improve rural lives and promote positive values.
Prof. Josephat Ogbuagu, Chairman of the occasion, emphasized the importance of collective effort and innovation in building a prosperous community.
Edward-Maduagwu described the summit as a milestone in Agulu’s journey toward inclusive growth. “This event is a testament to the power of visionary leadership and commitment to human capital development,” she said.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Chidiebele Iloanya, a petty trader, expressed appreciation to the organisers and pledged to make good use of the support received. Another recipient, Mr. Ifeanyi Okonkwo, who got equipment and funds for his saloon business, also thanked the team for the life-changing opportunity.
