Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has urged Nigerian youths to remain in the country and pursue opportunities locally, insisting that migration abroad, popularly called “japa,” is not the only pathway to success.
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Mbah made the remark on Tuesday while delivering the keynote address at the opening of the Joshua Generation International Youth Conference 2026 held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu. The event, themed “Rooted in Christ,” was organised by the Church of Nigeria under its youth-focused arm, the Anglican Communion.
The governor said Nigeria’s young population could achieve meaningful success if provided with the right environment, adding that government at all levels must deliberately build systems that support innovation, education, and enterprise.
He encouraged youths to remain hopeful despite economic and global challenges, noting that uncertainty should not discourage ambition.
“There will be moments when the path is unclear; moments when the effort feels heavy; moments when doubt sets in,” Mbah said, urging resilience and persistence.
He also referenced Canadian singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen, noting that even in difficult times, “there is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in,” to inspire optimism among young people.
Mbah further stressed that success should not be measured solely by personal wealth or status, but also by impact, integrity, and service to others.
According to him, his administration is investing in long-term youth empowerment through initiatives such as Smart Green Schools across all wards in Enugu State and innovation-driven programmes designed to link education with real-world opportunities.
He warned that without proper guidance and opportunity, Africa’s large youth population could become a challenge rather than an asset.
In his remarks, the Anglican Primate, Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba, described the Joshua Generation as a discipleship movement aimed at strengthening young people spiritually and morally in a time of growing social and economic pressures.
The conference also featured the presentation of an award to Governor Mbah in recognition of his leadership and youth development initiatives.