ENUGU — Youths from Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State on Tuesday staged a peaceful protest, calling on the state government to address challenges affecting their communities, including security, infrastructure and youth development.

The demonstration, held on June 30, saw participants urge the government to increase investment in the predominantly agrarian local government and improve basic infrastructure.

Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Onyebuchi M.O., who identified himself as an indigene of Uzo-Uwani, said the protest was organised by youths from across the local government to draw attention to issues they believe require urgent government intervention.

According to the protesters, many communities in the area face infrastructure challenges, including poor road networks, limited access to potable water and inadequate electricity supply, which they said have affected economic activities and residents’ livelihoods.

The protesters also expressed concern over security in parts of the local government, calling for increased security presence to enhance the safety of residents and farming communities.

They appealed to the government to strengthen measures aimed at protecting lives and property and creating an environment conducive to agricultural and economic activities.

The youths further urged the government to invest more in agriculture, noting that Uzo-Uwani has long been regarded as one of Enugu State’s major food-producing areas.

They also appealed for greater employment opportunities for qualified youths from the local government and called for the completion of ongoing public projects, including Smart School projects, to improve access to education.

In a statement issued during the protest, the Uzo-Uwani Youth Coalition said it was seeking constructive engagement with the government on issues affecting the area.

The group called for improved security, rehabilitation of road infrastructure, better access to electricity and potable water, completion of ongoing development projects and the implementation of programmes to promote agriculture and youth employment.