A former deputy governor of Imo State, Prince Eze Madumere, has asked Nigerian students to develop the spirit of ingenuity, creativity, leadership skills and create global mind set for the sustainable development of the nation.
Madumere made the appeal ing an address at the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, Skill Up Programme.
The Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), Imo East Senatorial District top contender and paradigm shift advocate, encouraged the students to work hard, shun vices, get rich-quick syndrome and reminded them that they were the future of the nation and that today belongs to them.
He said, “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”. “History teaches us that no nation develops beyond the capacity of its youths. This programme is far more than a training exercise. It is a declaration that the future belongs to those who are prepared. It is an affirmation that the true wealth of any nation lies not beneath its soil but in the minds, creativity, and productivity of its young people.
“Today, the world is witnessing an unprecedented transformation. Artificial Intelligence is redefining industries. Digital technology is disrupting traditional businesses. Innovation has become the new currency of global relevance. Nations are no longer measured merely by natural resources but by the quality of their human capital.”
Prince Madumere elaborated that this changing reality demands a new generation of young people who are not merely certificate holders but solution providers.
“Your academic qualification gives you knowledge, but your skills make you indispensable. Your certificate may open the door, but your competence keeps you inside the room.Your education gives you identity, but your innovation gives you influence.”
The American trained technocrat revealed to the students that the world will always make room for people whose competence is matched by integrity. He highlighted that every challenge they overcome is preparation for greater responsibilities.
Prince Madumere, the Owerri Zone Senatorial hopeful, submitted that some of the greatest innovators, the world celebrates today started with nothing except a dream, determination, discipline, and the courage to begin.
He said, “The greatest competition you will ever have is not with another student; it is with the person you were yesterday. The future is not something we inherit; it is something we deliberately create.and every skill you acquired today is a seed. ‘I have always believed that the youths of Imo State are among the most intelligent, resilient, and resourceful anywhere in Nigeria. What they require is exposure, mentorship, access to opportunities, and an enabling environment where their talents can flourish.
” This is why I have consistently advocated that our educational institutions must not only produce graduates but also innovators, entrepreneurs, inventors, digital creators, industrialists, and employers of labours. Consistency has a way of transforming little beginnings into extraordinary success stories.Permit me also to remind you that excellence is incomplete without character.”
Prince Madumere expressed optimism that “seated before him today are future governors, senators, ministers, professors, innovators, captains of industry, medical professionals, engineers, global entrepreneurs, and transformational leaders.”
The human capital development expert, advised the students to remain different and focused in a generation where shortcuts are increasingly celebrated.
