By Echem Ogodo
Former Ebonyi State PDP governorship candidate, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, has lamented what he described as systemic leadership failure and poor governance, which he says have trapped the vast potential of the state’s youth in poverty and unemployment.
In a message to mark International Youth Day, August 12, 2025, Odii said Ebonyi remains one of Nigeria’s poorest states, with 79.8% of its population living below the poverty line and 78% in multi-dimensional poverty, suffering deprivation in healthcare, education, housing, and basic amenities.
He noted that the state ranks 32nd out of 36 in the Ease of Doing Business Index — last in the Southeast — and has failed to attract any foreign direct investment since 2023. He also cited the 2024 Subnational Audit Efficacy Index, which placed Ebonyi 34th nationwide with a score of just 7%, reflecting poor transparency in public financial management.
Odii described the economic situation as “shattered dreams and wasted possibilities,” pointing to high youth unemployment, underemployment, food insecurity, and decaying infrastructure.
While commending Ebonyi youths for their resilience in business, sports, entertainment, and community service despite lack of systemic support, he urged them to unite, demand accountable leadership, and take bold local actions to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“The future we seek is not something to wait for. It is something to create now and together,” he charged.
