The Member representing Idemili North/Idemili South Federal Constituency of Anambra State, Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo, has called on the government and young people to shift the country’s economy from consumption to production.
Speaking to journalists on the occasion of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, Okonkwo emphasized that opportunities abound to make Nigeria’s economy a production economy.
According to him, Nigerian youths must lead the charge in investing in technology, innovation, and education to transform the economy. “The world is fast-changing. Nations that thrive are those investing in technology, innovation, and education. Nigerian youths must lead the charge. With your creativity, coding skills, digital entrepreneurship, and technological innovation, you can transform our economy from consumption to production,” he said.
Okonkwo urged youths to channel their energy into excellence, discipline, and teamwork, particularly in sports and entertainment, which he described as industries that create wealth, build character, and unite people. He also encouraged youths to be involved in volunteering, skill-sharing, mentorship, and social projects that uplift lives.
The lawmaker warned youths against being used as tools for violence and ballot snatching, urging them to defend democracy and say no to violence, manipulation, and corruption.
“Election season must not be a time when youths are used as thugs and pawns by political manipulators. Instead, rise as defenders of democracy,” he said.
Okonkwo emphasized the need for unity and peace in the country, urged youths to shun divisive voices and celebrate their diversity.
“Nigeria’s strength is her diversity. We must shun the voices that divide us along ethnic and religious lines,” he said.
The lawmaker concluded by warning against corruption and shortcuts, emphasized that the way forward is through integrity, hard work, creativity, service re, and faith in the country. “The way forward is integrity, hard work, creativity, service, and faith in our country,” he concluded
