Group under the aegis of Ndigbo Youth Parliament, NYP, has urged Governors from the Igbo region to rise up against security threats pervading the region for sustainable development.

The call was made by the speaker of the youth group, Rikki Nwajiofor, in a press statement marking the commemoration of Igbo Day Celebration.

Nwajiofor, on behalf of NYP, extended greetings to all Ndigbo at home and in the diaspora as they mark this year’s Igbo Day.

He stated that the celebration is not just a date on the calendar, but a solemn reminder of shared heritage, identity, resilience, industrious spirit, and values that make the Igbo race who they are.

NYP, advised that Ndigbo should sustain and protect its pride of dignity, enterprise, hospitality, and indomitable spirit which they are known for.

“As we reflect on the state of our beloved Ala Igbo, I call on our State Governors to place the security of lives and properties of our people above personal interests and partisan politics. A secure environment is the foundation of development; our safety must be treated as a sacred duty.

“Beyond this, our Governors must prioritize human capital development by investing in education, skill acquisition, technology, and entrepreneurship. For a people known for ingenuity, the greatest gift to our youth is the opportunity to learn, trade, innovate, thrive, and lead.” he stated.

Nwajiofor, equally used the medium to remind political leaders and appointees from the region that their mandate is first and foremost to serve the common interests of the people.

He maintained that politics of self-interest and division is inimical to the overall development of the region.

He further advised Igbo leaders, that unity of purpose should be the guiding light in every policy, project, and decision that is being taken.

The Speaker of NYP, asserted that Ndigbo are yearning for transformational leadership, not politics of division or self-interest.

Talking about the continued incarceration of Nnamdi Kanu, Nwajiofor, appealed to the Federal Government of Nigeria to demonstrate empathetic leadership and compassion by embracing a political solution in the case.

“His release, through dialogue and reconciliation, will not only douse tensions in the region but also go a long way in healing wounds and fostering peace not only in the South-East but across Nigeria.the release stated.

Nwajiofor further used the medium to urge every Igbo son and daughter, especially the youth, to rise above secessionist sentiments and embrace unity, maintaining that secession is not best option, but that unity will empower the growth of the nation.

“Let us build a strong, prosperous Ala Igbo within a united Nigeria, where our collective strength and industry can shine as a light to the world. The strength of Ndigbo lies in our unity, industry, and collective determination to thrive wherever we find ourselves.

“As the Igbo proverb says: “Igwe bu ike” – our strength is in unity. Let us, therefore, recommit ourselves to the ideals of peace, progress, and brotherhood. Together, we can shape a future that honours our ancestors, uplifts our generation, secures the destiny of those yet unborn, and makes Ala Igbo great again.” he further advised.