By Okoye Chioma

Organisers of the Idoma Centenary Plus Celebrations have launched the Idoma Talent Hunt (ITH), a youth-focused initiative aimed at identifying and supporting talented young people from Idoma land and the diaspora.

The competition will feature auditions in Abuja, Lagos and Otukpo, with participants expected to showcase their skills in music, dance, comedy, acting, spoken word, instrumental performance and other creative disciplines.

According to the programme schedule released by the organisers, auditions will begin in Abuja on July 10 and 11, move to Lagos on July 24 and 25, and conclude in Otukpo on August 14 and 15. The grand finale is scheduled for December 26, 2026.

Organisers said the talent hunt is intended to provide a platform for young people to showcase their abilities while connecting them with mentorship and development opportunities.

The initiative forms part of a broader youth development programme under the Idoma Centenary Plus Celebrations, which also includes a three-day Youth Convention, an Economic and Innovation Summit, and the Idoma Centenary Plus Hackathon 2026.

The Youth Convention is scheduled to hold from August 8 to 10 and will bring together young professionals, entrepreneurs, students, innovators and community leaders to discuss leadership, economic development and the future of the Idoma nation.

The Economic and Innovation Summit will focus on entrepreneurship, technology, investment opportunities and youth development.

Also planned is the Idoma Centenary Plus Hackathon, themed “Innovating for the Future of Idoma Nation,” which is expected to attract between 200 and 250 innovators from the nine Idoma-speaking local government areas and the diaspora.

Chairman of the Youths and Innovation Committee, Engr. Otene Godwin Emmanuel, said the programmes are aimed at encouraging creativity, innovation and youth participation in community development.

Similarly, Chairman of the Idoma Centenary Lecture Committee and coordinator of the Hackathon, Engr. Adokwu Oche David, described the initiative as part of efforts to promote innovation and create opportunities for young people.

According to the organisers, the Talent Hunt, Youth Convention and Hackathon are expected to provide platforms for engagement, skills development and collaboration among young people across Idoma communities.