Idemili South Mayor Backs ASTUC Youth Role Model Initiative, Pledges Inclusion in Governance

By Our Correspondent

The Mayor of Idemili South Local Government Area, Hon. Oluchukwu John Ilogbenu (Olutek), has pledged to expand youth participation in governance, assuring young people of opportunities to contribute to decision-making and grassroots development.

Ilogbenu gave the assurance while receiving a delegation of the Anambra State Town Unions Council (ASTUC) Youth Wing, led by its President-General, Comrade Ken Okoli, during a courtesy visit ahead of an initiative to recognise seven outstanding youths in Idemili South as Community Role Models.

Describing his administration as youth-friendly, the Mayor stressed the importance of creating platforms for young people to demonstrate their leadership abilities, contribute innovative ideas and take up strategic responsibilities in government.

He commended ASTUC for the initiative, noting that celebrating exemplary young people would promote responsible behaviour, encourage positive values and inspire others to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

The Mayor also emphasised the need for young people to embrace the 12 core values of Onye Anambra, including the fear of God, patriotism, self-reliance, discipline, truth, justice, dignity of labour, tolerance and love.

Speaking on the initiative, ASTUC Youth Wing President-General, Comrade Ken Okoli, said the Community Role Model programme was designed to identify and celebrate young people whose achievements, character and contributions to society distinguish them as worthy ambassadors of their communities.

Okoli explained that the programme goes beyond recognising individual accomplishments, serving as a platform to promote discipline, patriotism, self-reliance, mutual respect and a strong sense of community responsibility among young people.

He added that the initiative aligns with the youth development and governance agenda of Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, particularly the promotion of positive values and responsible citizenship among the younger generation.

Congratulating the prospective award recipients, Mayor Ilogbenu urged them to sustain the exemplary conduct that earned them the recognition and remain worthy role models to younger generations.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building an inclusive local government where young people are empowered to contribute to the development and progress of Idemili South.