Essential Ndubuisi
By David Okpokwasili
With World population predicted to hit over nine billion in less than thirty years and faced with increasing food shortage and poverty, the very important roles of youths in stemming these challenges has been highlighted as the world marks the 2021 International Youth Day.
The day has as its theme as “Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovations For Human And Planetary Health”.
The International Youth Day observed every August 12 was set aside by the United Nations General in the year 1999 following a recommendation of the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth in Lisbon.
Speaking at an event organized by the Anambra State Government in Awka to mark the day, the Commissioner for Youth Empowerment and Creative Economy, Professor Theresa Obiekezie advised the youths of the State to key into innovative government policies in agriculture targeted Transforming and boosting food sufficiency in Anambra State and Nigeria.
Professor Obiekezie highlighted the different financial facilities provided through the Anambra Small Business Agency, ASBA, Fisheries and Aquaculture Business Development Agency, FABDA, and other government agencies which young people can use to become self reliant, create wealth and job opportunities through sustainable agricultural practices.
The event is being attended by members of different of community based, political, nongovernmental and faith based youth organizations, and other government agencies and parastatals involved in implementation of youth oriented policies.
