Madumere Urges Youths to Embrace Integrity, Discipline for National Growth
Former Imo State Deputy Governor Eze Madumere has challenged Nigerian youths to build their future on integrity, discipline, innovation and hard work, saying the country’s progress depends largely on the character, creativity and leadership capacity of its younger generation.
Madumere made the call on Sunday, July 5, 2026, during the inauguration of the Students Wing of the Journey of Grace movement at the Journey of Grace Campaign Office along Okigwe Road in Owerri, Imo State.
The event formed part of activities marking his 62nd birthday celebration and brought together students, youth leaders and supporters from across the state.
Addressing the gathering, Madumere said the rapidly changing global economy demands a generation of young Nigerians who are prepared to compete through innovation, entrepreneurship and ethical leadership rather than dependence on certificates alone.
He noted that advances in Artificial Intelligence, digital technology and innovation have transformed the global labour market, making creativity, adaptability and problem-solving indispensable qualities for success.
“The changing realities demand a new generation of young people who are not merely certificate holders but solution providers,” Madumere said.
He stressed that sustainable national development can only be achieved when young people embrace values that promote accountability and responsible leadership.
“Sustainable growth is rooted in integrity, humility, transparency and courage to be different in approach and delivery,” he said.
According to him, no nation can rise above the quality of its youth population, urging students to reject shortcuts to success and instead pursue legitimate opportunities that contribute meaningfully to society.
“History teaches us that no nation develops beyond the capacity of its youths,” he said.
Madumere encouraged the students to see themselves as future employers of labour rather than job seekers, adding that entrepreneurship, vocational skills and digital competence would play increasingly significant roles in shaping Nigeria’s economic future.
Highlighting the impact of emerging technologies, he said the global economy is rewarding innovation and practical solutions over conventional qualifications.
“Today, the world is witnessing unprecedented transformations.”
“Artificial Intelligence is redefining industries.”
“Digital technology is disrupting traditional businesses.”
“Innovation has become the new currency of global relevance,” he said.
He further urged educational institutions to produce graduates equipped with practical knowledge capable of addressing contemporary challenges.
“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,” Madumere added.
Speaking on leadership and public service, Madumere pledged his commitment to accountable representation if elected to represent Imo East Senatorial District in 2027.
“I will sign a social contract for quality representation with my people, the stakeholders and the entire citizens of the Senatorial zone,” he said.
He also called on residents of the zone to remain optimistic about the future.
“I have a clear vision.”
“Let’s work together and keep hope alive for a new Owerri Zone is possible,” Madumere said.
The event also featured the formal inauguration of the Students Wing of the Journey of Grace movement, an initiative designed to promote leadership development, civic responsibility and value-based engagement among students across tertiary institutions.
In his remarks, Nwosu Desmond, President of the Students’ Union Government of the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, welcomed the initiative and expressed the students’ readiness to support programmes that encourage integrity, entrepreneurship and leadership among young Nigerians.
The gathering concluded with renewed calls for greater youth participation in nation-building through innovation, discipline and responsible leadership, as participants described character development as an essential ingredient for Nigeria’s social and economic transformation.
