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.