By Olayinka Latona

The General Superintendent of Holy Spirit Mission, Bishop Charles Ighele, has urged the Federal Government to make youth development a priority by establishing a clear vision for Nigeria’s future.

Speaking at the “Get Skilled” program—organized by Sharon Education Services Ltd. and held at Holy Spirit Mission in Akowonjo, Lagos—Ighele highlighted the importance of investing in young people, who constitute over 60% of Nigeria’s population.

As chairman of the board of trustees at Sharon Education Services Ltd., Ighele called for policies aimed at human development, stressing that the success of any government is reflected in the quality of its citizens. He explained that youth empowerment is vital to economic growth, innovation, and entrepreneurship, which are all crucial for a strong economy.

“The painful thing,” Ighele noted, “is that many in government do not know why they are there. There’s so much struggle for power, yet little understanding of its purpose. The government has vast financial resources to improve lives.”

Explaining the goal of “Get Skilled,” he said the program was designed to develop Nigerian talent across sectors. “We registered a non-governmental organization focusing on this project, targeting 200 students with tuition-free, world-class certification. This initiative transcends denominational and religious lines, offering skills that vary in duration based on the field,” Ighele said. The training includes agriculture, advanced mechanics, and other essential trades.

Dr. Cyril Eluma, CEO of Inspire Dreams Foundation, encouraged parents to actively mentor their children, especially fathers who play a crucial role in a child’s development. “Fatherhood is not just a title; it’s a responsibility,” Eluma said. He emphasized that helping children understand their purpose can help them make informed life choices.

During a Q&A session, Eluma advised young people to focus on self-discovery, rather than pursuing instant gratification. He stressed the importance of managing time, talents, and treasures wisely: “The three T’s—time, treasure, and talent—are essential. Youths should invest time in discovering their abilities and avoid pursuing only immediate desires, which can lead to lost potential.”

He concluded by highlighting the value of delayed gratification as a pathway to a more fulfilling future, warning against sacrificing long-term goals for short-term satisfaction.