Igala Youths: Catalysts for Cultural Preservation and Economic Growth – Prince Daniel Daniel, ICDA Ganaja Chairman

…..Urges youth to reject thuggery, social vices

Prince Idoko Daniel Ogacheko, Chairman, Igala Cultural Development Association, ICDA, Ganaja, Ajaokuta Local Government Areas of Kogi State, said the youth are the backbone of any nation, driving economic and social progress with their energy, innovative ideas, and fresh perspectives. Their participation in politics, economy, and culture is crucial for nation-building.

According to him, the Igala people, an ethnic group in Nigeria, possess a rich cultural heritage and abundant natural resources.

However, the sustainability of their cultural identity and economic development largely depends on the active involvement of the youth. This paper explores the role of Igala youths in cultural preservation and economic growth, highlighting their potential as catalysts for progress.

Cultural Preservation and Economic Development

The Igala youths can play a vital role in preserving their cultural heritage by documenting and promoting traditional practices, customs, and values. For instance, traditional marriage rites are part of these practices.

Today, the culture of ‘Ibegwu’ that promotes fidelity and peace in marriage is being eroded gradually. Such can be documented for the benefit of generations yet unborn.

Participating in cultural festivals and events like the Italo festival, Ogani festival and others can also boost and preserve the cultural heritage of our people.
The Igala language can be learnt and taught in our schools by the youths so that the language does not go extinct.

Another way is engaging in cultural exchange programs.

The Igala ethnic group is blessed with resourceful youths whose potentials can be harnessed for the growth of Igala land.

For economic growth and development, Igala youths can contribute to economic growth by acquiring skills and education in entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation.

Our local industries such as agriculture and crafts need to be developed and managed for maximum productivity. Tourism promotion and cultural exchange are great economic boosters all over the world that the youths can tap into to change the fortune of Nigeria. Community-driven development projects need energy and skills of the youth.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite their potentials, Igala youths face challenges such as:

1. Limited access to education and economic resources.
2. Cultural erosion and globalization. The advancement in science and technology and social media influence have eroded some parts of our culture. These days , you see boys plait their hair, wear ear rings and even want to change their gender as practised in other climes
3. Unemployment and underemployment. A very large chunk of our youths graduate every year without commensurate job opportunities. Many who are employed are underemployed, for instance, a lot of graduates employed in private secondary school in particular are paid peanuts

However, opportunities exist for:

1. Leveraging technology for cultural preservation and economic development. So many are promoting the Igala culture through contents creation on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram and other social media outfit.
2. Collaborating with government and non-governmental organizations.
3. Developing youth-led initiatives and entrepreneurship programs.

Conclusion

Igala youths have a critical role to play in preserving their cultural heritage and driving economic growth. By harnessing their potential, providing opportunities, and addressing challenges, Igala youths can become catalysts for sustainable development and progress in their community.

I call on our youths to reject thuggery and political violence, embracing peace instead. Let’s learn from the fate of many thugs who have lost their lives. Politicians who use thugs often protect their own, leaving the youths to face the consequences.

Let us make our land a conducive environment for industrialization as we are blessed with a lot of natural resources.

Let us work together to build a brighter future for Igala land. Unity, empowerment, and peace are key to our progress.

Recommendations

1. Establish youth-led cultural preservation initiatives.
2. Provide education and skills training programs.
3. Encourage entrepreneurship and innovation.
4. Foster partnerships with government and non-governmental organizations.

By empowering Igala youths, we can ensure the long-term sustainability of their cultural identity and economic development.

THE NEED FOR UNITY AMONG IGALA YOUTHS FOR ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

Youths are the backbone of any nation, driving economic and social progress with their energy, innovative ideas, and fresh perspectives. Their participation in politics, economy, and culture is crucial for nation-building. However, this can only be achieved if they are empowered with the right education, skills, and leadership opportunities.

The Igala ethnic group is blessed with resourceful youths whose potentials can be harnessed for the growth of Igala land. The Igala Cultural and Development Association (ICDA), Ukomu Igala , Ojuju Agbadufu and other notable Igala organizations like the organizers of today’s event that can drive this growth. However, the lack of unity among various groups and associations has hindered progress in Igala land.

A house divided against itself cannot stand. Therefore, it is imperative that we foster unity among our groups. I urge the ICDA to take the lead in this effort by properly coordinating and including all other association in their activities. This can be achieved by offering them some leadership positions within the executives, thereby promoting a sense of belonging and collective ownership.

In view of the above, Ukomu Igala should serve as the media and publicity department of ICDA with their President as Director of media and publicity of Igala Social Cultural organization called ICDA.
There should be harmonization of all Igala Youth organization with their Presidents serving as the National Youth President of Igala who will become the National Youth coordinator of ICDA.

The National Coordinator of Kogi East Neighbourhood Watch (KENW)should also serve as Director of Security and Intelligence of ICDA .

I call on our youths to reject thuggery and political violence, embracing peace instead. Let’s learn from the fate of many thugs who have lost their lives. Politicians who use thugs often protect their own, leaving the youths to face the consequences.
Let us make our land a conducive environment for industrialization as we are blessed with a lot of natural resources.

Let us work together to build a brighter future for Igala land. Unity, empowerment, and peace are key to our progress.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Unity among Igala youths is crucial for economic and cultural development.
2. ICDA should take the lead in fostering unity and inclusion.
3. Youths should reject thuggery and political violence and embrace peace and collective progress.

Prince Idoko Daniel Ogacheko
Chairman, ICDA Ganaja, Ajaokuta Local Government Areas of Kogi State.