Prominent sons and leaders of the Egbelu-Ngor Progressive Union, Lagos Branch, have called on Nigerian youths to embrace discipline, creativity, consistency, and purposeful living as keys to success in life and nation-building.
Speaking at a well-attended town union meeting, the speakers, including Professor Cletus Orgu, Provost of Life Theological Seminary; Eke Eugene Wilson, a Science Laboratory Technology entrepreneur; and Engineer Chinedu, stressed that youths must adopt a new mindset to seize the opportunities available in today’s world.
They emphasized that without preparation, young people risk losing out on life-changing chances. “When somebody does not prepare and opportunity comes, the person will not be able to seize it. My counsel to our youths is to look to the future for a more glorious life—for themselves and for our community,” one of the speakers noted.
President of the Union, Engr. Sabinus Tony Edi, who has led the association for about 15 years, said the renewed focus on youth development marks a new chapter for the union. “We are not here to measure strength but to work together for our collective good and that of our community,” he said.
He expressed joy at the unprecedented turnout at the meeting, attributing it to the introduction of guest speakers who addressed key issues facing young people. “Today, I am elated because we’ve never seen this number before. Those absent have even assured me they’ll attend the next meeting, and I believe the crowd will double,” he said.
The gathering also agreed to embark on a solar-powered water project to support families in their hometown. “This project is a necessity because even our elderly women need access to water, and we must make that possible whether or not there is electricity,” the Union president added.
On youth behavior, Mr. Eke Eugene Wilson expressed concern over the reluctance of young people to learn trades, acquire technical skills, or commit to long-term growth. He cautioned against the overreliance on menial jobs or fleeting opportunities.
He strongly advocated for the revival of the Igbo apprenticeship model, describing it as a proven pathway to wealth creation and community development. “Educated or not, apprenticeship has lifted entire communities out of poverty. Sadly, many youths today are not ready to bend down, pay the price, or commit to learning,” he lamented.
Sharing his personal experience, Wilson regretted missed opportunities in sports development, citing how local footballers ignored an invitation to showcase their talent before a visiting scout. “Others are praying for such opportunities, yet our youths allowed it to slip away,” he said.
Professor Orgu, on his part, described his participation as both a privilege and a continuation of his ministry of service to humanity. He disclosed that for over a decade, he has sponsored scholarships for children in his community and contributed to infrastructural projects, including power supply initiatives.
He urged the youths to “live with purpose,” warning that a lack of vision and planning is the reason many fail to succeed. “Luck is when opportunity meets preparedness. Without purpose and preparation, youths cannot make an impact in life,” he said.
The meeting also drew enthusiastic first-time attendees, including Amarachi Okere, Chidozie Okere, and Uche Nzeh, who lauded the Union’s renewed direction and pledged to participate actively in future activities.
With the fresh energy and commitment witnessed at the gathering, many expressed optimism that the Union’s focus on youth development and community projects will chart a new course for the people of Egbelu-Ngor both in Lagos and back home.
