Empowering the Future: Chima Amadi's Vision for Imo State*
By Stevenie Michaels
Mazi Chima Amadi, a renowned business mogul and philanthropist, has emphasized the importance of good governance, purposeful leadership, and skills acquisition in advancing the economy, peace, and security of Imo State. Speaking at the 4th Public Lecture and Birthday Celebration of Prof. Protus Uzorma Nathan in Owerri, Amadi highlighted the need for meaningful empowerment programs that focus on wealth creation, rather than mere handouts.
*The Power of Empowerment*
According to Amadi, when people, especially youth and women, are adequately empowered with functional infrastructure and enabling environments, productivity and resourcefulness are enhanced, leading to wealth creation and enjoyment for all. He stressed that any society that prioritizes good governance, working infrastructure, and meaningful activities for its citizens will always make healthy progress and enjoy good living.
*The Current State of Affairs*
Amadi lamented the current state of affairs in Imo State, where hunger, insecurity, and lack of direction have become pervasive. He emphasized that it is not too late for governments and NGOs to take action and invest in building the youth and women productively. "There are so many things going on in the state that you do not have to wait 2027 ,,2027 is too far to wait," he said.
*Beyond Tokenism*
Amadi faulted some politicians for using tokenistic empowerment programs, such as providing tricycles, bikes, and meager amounts of money, to buy the loyalty of youth and women. He emphasized that true empowerment involves creating enabling environments and providing well-thought-out programs that equip people with skills and knowledge to become wealth creators. "When I use EMPOWER - I do not use it in the way the Average Politician uses EMPOWER," he said. "EMPOWER is not used in that manner where you give people Keke Napep and Wheelbarrows... It has to be a direct, well-thought-out program where people will be wealth creators later in the course of their journey."
*A Call to Action*
Amadi urged governments at all levels to rise to the occasion by training youth and women on productive skills and commerce, with a view to improving economic prosperity and social security in the state. He emphasized that such investments will have a positive impact on the state's economy and security, and that it is essential for governments to prioritize the well-being of their citizens.
*The Role of Government*
Amadi emphasized the importance of government creating enabling environments that support businesses and entrepreneurship. "Creating enabling environments by government will help a lot to strengthen businesses and security to improve economy, prosperity, peace, comfort, development," he said. By providing infrastructure, security, and a favorable business environment, governments can create opportunities for citizens to thrive and contribute to the state's economic growth.
*Supporting the Cause*
In a demonstration of his commitment to empowering the youth and women, Amadi donated a huge amount of money to Prof. Protus Uzorma Foundation to support its efforts on youth and women emancipation from poverty, suffering, crime, incarceration, slavery, and imprisonment. This gesture is a testament to Amadi's dedication to making a positive impact in his community.
*A Brighter Future*
With his vision for Imo State, Amadi is confident that the state can overcome its challenges and achieve a brighter future. By working together to create enabling environments, provide meaningful empowerment programs, and prioritize good governance, the people of Imo State can build a prosperous and secure future for themselves and future generations. Amadi's message is a call to action, urging governments, NGOs, and individuals to join forces in empowering the youth and women of Imo State.
*The Way Forward*
Amadi's vision for Imo State is centered on empowering the youth and women through skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and wealth creation. By providing meaningful empowerment programs and creating enabling environments, the state can unlock the potential of its citizens and achieve sustainable development. As Amadi noted, "When people are empowered, they become productive and resourceful, leading to wealth creation and enjoyment for all." With the right approach, Imo State can overcome its challenges and achieve a brighter future.
