In a resounding declaration, the leading gubernatorial aspirant for the 2024 Labour Party in Edo State, Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie, emphasizes a commitment to prioritizing youth employment, education, and empowerment. With a determined voice, she states, “We can chew and walk at the same time.” The aspirant recognizes the pressing issues of hunger and poverty in the state and underscores the importance of addressing these challenges to foster development.

Unemployment stands as a formidable issue in Edo State, casting a shadow over the aspirations and dreams of its youth. The scarcity of job opportunities has created a disheartening scenario where many capable individuals find themselves without meaningful employment. To counter this, Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie proposes a comprehensive strategy that integrates both short-term and long-term solutions to tackle unemployment.

Furthermore, the rising cost of education compounds the difficulties faced by the youth in Edo State. The prohibitive expenses associated with acquiring an education have become a significant barrier, preventing many from accessing quality learning opportunities. The aspirant recognizes the need for immediate intervention to make education more affordable and accessible, ensuring that the youth are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a competitive world.

Another critical concern is the inadequate resources allocated for skills acquisition programs. While infrastructure development is essential, the aspirant highlights the government’s disproportionate focus on it at the expense of human capital development. The lack of resources for skills acquisition leaves many young people without the means to acquire specialized skills that could enhance their employability and contribute to the overall growth of the state’s economy.

Ambassador Princess Asha Okojie-Odigie underscores the need for a balanced approach, emphasizing that investments in human capital development are crucial for sustained economic growth. A well-rounded strategy that encompasses both skilled and unskilled labor can create a dynamic and thriving workforce, fostering a robust economy that benefits all. The aspirant envisions a future where the government actively invests in the potential of its youth, creating a landscape of opportunity, progress, and prosperity for all citizens of Edo State.