Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, has called on young Nigerians to emulate responsible leaders and elders whose lives reflect integrity, discipline and service, saying positive role models are essential for building a better society.
Idahosa made the appeal while speaking at a youth-focused event in Edo State, where he encouraged young people to be intentional about the values and individuals they choose to admire.
According to the deputy governor, the quality of role models embraced by young people has a significant influence on their character, decision-making and future contributions to society.
He urged youths to look beyond fame, wealth and social media popularity when selecting mentors, stressing that individuals with proven records of honesty, hard work and selfless service should serve as examples for the younger generation.
“The future of our society depends on the values our young people embrace today. They should adopt responsible leaders and elders as role models if they are to make meaningful contributions to national development,” Idahosa said.
The deputy governor also encouraged young people to remain committed to education, entrepreneurship and skills acquisition, noting that these would equip them to take advantage of opportunities and contribute positively to the country’s development.
He stressed the importance of discipline, perseverance and respect for constituted authority, adding that sustainable progress can only be achieved when young people uphold strong moral values and actively participate in community development.
Idahosa further assured youths of the Edo State Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for their growth through investments in education, job creation, innovation and youth empowerment programmes.
He urged parents, religious institutions, traditional rulers and community leaders to work together in mentoring the younger generation, saying nation-building requires collective efforts to nurture responsible and productive citizens.
His remarks come amid increasing calls by government officials and civil society groups for greater youth engagement in leadership, civic responsibility and community development as Nigeria seeks to harness the potential of its growing young population
