Former Deputy Governor of Imo State, Prince Eze Madumere, has encouraged Nigerian students to work hard and shun all forms of social vices and the get-rich-quick syndrome.
He also urged them to develop the spirit of ingenuity, creativity, leadership skills, and a global mindset for the sustainable development of the nation.
Prince Madumere gave the advice in his address at the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede Skill Up Programme on Wednesday.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Imo East Senatorial District and paradigm shift advocate reminded the students that they are the future of the nation and that today belongs to them.
He said, “May this Skill Up Nekede initiative produce not just graduates, but global solution providers; not just job seekers, but job creators; not just successful individuals, but transformational leaders.”
Describing the programme as far more than a training exercise, he said the future belongs to those who are prepared.
According to him, it is an affirmation that the true wealth of any nation lies not beneath its soil, but in the minds, creativity, and productivity of its young people.
He said, “Today, the world is witnessing an unprecedented transformation. Artificial Intelligence is redefining industries. Digital technology is disrupting traditional businesses. Innovation has become the new currency of global relevance. Nations are no longer measured merely by natural resources, but by the quality of their human capital.”
Prince Madumere explained that this changing reality demands a new generation of young people who are not merely certificate holders, but solution providers.
He said, “Your academic qualification gives you knowledge, but your skills make you indispensable. Your certificate may open the door, but your competence keeps you inside the room. Your education gives you identity, but your innovation gives you influence.”
He told the students that the world will always make room for people whose competence is matched by integrity, adding that every challenge they overcome is preparation for greater responsibilities.
The Owerri Zone senatorial hopeful said some of the greatest innovators the world celebrates today started with nothing except a dream, determination, discipline, and the courage to begin.
He said, “The greatest competition you will ever have is not with another student; it is with the person you were yesterday. The future is not something we inherit; it is something we deliberately create, and every skill you acquire today is a seed.”
He acknowledged that the youths of Imo State are among the most intelligent, resilient, and resourceful in Nigeria, adding that they need exposure, mentorship, access to opportunities, and an enabling environment where their talents can flourish.
He stressed that educational institutions must not only produce graduates but also innovators, entrepreneurs, inventors, digital creators, industrialists, and employers of labour.
He added, “Guard your integrity, respect your parents, honour your lecturers, and reject cultism. Reject drug abuse, reject internet fraud, and every form of criminality. Success built on dishonesty never lasts.”
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