Abimbola Abatta, Osogbo
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi has charged stakeholders to project the idea-filled Nigerian youths to the world as a way of breaking the yoke the regular sad stories of bombing, looting and banditry.
Ooni maintained that Nigeria’s positive sides are being under-reported while undue attention is given to the challenges confronting the country.
He called on media practitioners nationwide to promote Nigeria through the youths, especially those in the entrepreneurial and creative sectors.
Ooni stated these while playing host to winners of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) award of the Federal Government of Nigeria in his palace in Ile-Ife.
In his words, “Rather than being afraid of the President, Governors or other persons in position of authority, my fear is for the young ones whose fate cannot be decided by anyone no matter how highly placed.
“I wish to commend the Federal Government for honouring them this much and I call on the Mass media to help sell these idea-filled youths to the world.
“Youth development and capacity building is my oxygen, it is what gives me life and that’s why I organized several platforms to ensure that our youths are training to be financially independent towards taking leadership positions which they are destined for.
“Do not be scared, I am here to open all doors for you towards prosperity.”
Speaking on behalf of the MSME awardees, Mr. Benedict Orioye thanked the Ooni for his leadership and mentorship roles which was immensely beneficial to all.
He said, “On behalf of my wonderful colleagues, I wish to state unequivocally that we are just evolving and we are going to bring you more laurels as we are ready to redefine the practice of entrepreneur in Nigeria.”