NEED FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT AND JOB CREATION FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF NONOIL PRODUCING SOUTH -EASTERN STATES OF NIGERIA

Abstract

The paper explored within the framework of available resources and utilization, the
need for youth empowerment as well as job creation for economic development of non-oil
producing south - eastern States of Nigeria. The paper encouraged Nigerians' involvement in
agro-allied industries for effective national transformation, and advocates that human efforts
especially in the non-oil producing southeastern States should be directed towards career in
technology and vocational education (TVE). The authors were of the opinion that career in
TVE encourages self-reliance, entrepreneurial skills and productive endeavour and that the
introduction of TVE in the scheme of activities for the youths could inspire in them the spirit
necessary to generate and nurture their ideas into reality. The paper also emphasized the
application of modern technologies in exploiting available material resources for profitable
opportunities that could empower the youths for paid or self-employment. In conclusion, the
paper condemns poor attitude of Nigerians towards made-in-Nigeria goods and suggests that
the nation's interest be applied in a manner that encourages indigenous productions in order
to diversify and maximize Nigeria's export base and capacity.