Empowering the Future Summit Records Resounding Success in the Renewed Fight Against Drug Abuse

Organizer Sues for Youth Empowerment

By: Jeremiah Enaholo Kadiri

Auchi, Edo State.

The much anticipated “Empowering the Future Summit”, which was carefully organized for teenagers in Secondary Schools across Edo North held on Friday -the 21st of February and has been hailed as a resounding success, drawing participants from across the region of Edo North to address critical issues such as drug abuse awareness, youth empowerment, and community development. Organized by a passionate team and led by a visionary organizer in the person of Amidat Ilegar Austine of Miss Afenmai and TOWA TV, the event brought together thought leaders, activists, and stakeholders to chart a path toward a brighter future for Nigeria’s youth.

The summit, which took place at the SSANIP building in Auchi -Headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, was a vibrant convergence of ideas, inspiration, and actionable strategies aimed at tackling the scourge of drug abuse and empowering young people to become agents of change in their communities. The event was marked by insightful presentations, interactive discussions, and a shared commitment to fostering a society where young people can thrive with dignity and purpose.

The organizer, Mrs. Amidat expressed profound gratitude to God for the opportunity to host the event, its successful execution and extended heartfelt appreciation to everyone who contributed to its impact. She particularly thanked Rt. Hon. Dame Barr. Grace Egbagbe, who delivered a powerful keynote address.

Speaking to the import of the event, Barr. Egbagbe commended the organizer for her dedication and emphasized the importance of hard work, dignity, and youth empowerment -noting that youth oriented projects and programmes such as the “Empowering the Future Summit” are making a tangible difference in the lives of young Nigerians.

The summit featured a lineup of distinguished speakers who shared their expertise and passion for driving positive change. Madam Ronke Ojiekere, renowned for her advocacy on women and children’s rights, delivered an emotional and thought-provoking presentation on the abuse of women and children. Her speech resonated deeply with the audience, sparking a wave of emotions and a renewed commitment to addressing these pressing issues.

Queen Blessing Ebigieson and Ambassador Umanu Elijah also took the stage respectively, offering valuable insights on personal growth, leadership, and the role of young people in nation-building. Their messages inspired attendees to take ownership of their futures and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

The NDLEA Auchi Commandant together with Alhaji Chief Dr. Suleman Imonikhe Momoh (the Takobi of Auchi Sacred Kingdom), provided a compelling discourse on drug abuse prevention, highlighting the devastating effects of substance abuse on individuals and society. They emphasized the need for collective action to combat the drug epidemic and called for stronger partnerships between law enforcement, community leaders, and young people.

Speaking to the manifestation of the event, Amidat noted that the event was a reality through the sponsorship of the Azeez Butalli Foundation, Tudi Africa and a host of other concerned individuals, whose contributions were instrumental in bringing the vision to life.

The role of the media in spreading the summit’s message cannot be overstated. AUCHI BLOG & Services, Okpella TV, FOCUS TV, Nigeria, and NTA Uzairue played a crucial role in amplifying the event’s reach, ensuring that the discussions and outcomes resonated far beyond the walls of the venue. Their coverage helped to ignite a broader conversation about the importance of youth empowerment and drug abuse prevention.