Youths Described as Drivers of Change, Urged to Build Strong Future

Youths have been described as major drivers of change and development in society.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters, Apostle KC Wiper, made the remark at the Seventh Day Adventist Church Unity Chapel, Government House Umuahia, during the worldwide 75th anniversary celebration of Pathfinders of the Adventist Youth Ministry. He urged youths to remain focused, set their priorities right, and pursue goals that will positively impact their lives.

Apostle Wiper reiterated the present administration’s interest in youth development and its commitment to their progress, noting that this prompted Governor Alex Otti to establish the first-ever Abia Leadership Academy. He said the initiative was designed to train youths in their fields of interest, take them off the streets and crime, and prepare them to become responsible future leaders. He further solicited support and prayers for the administration.

The Governor’s aide also encouraged youths to take advantage of training and skills acquisition opportunities to build a solid future. He used the occasion to congratulate a youth member, Mr. Wisdom Ibe, and his wife, Favor, on their marriage anniversary, praying for God’s continued blessings in their union.

In his sermon titled “Judea and His Son’s Wife: From Scandal to Redemption,” Dr. Ndubisi Odikwa condemned the rising unfaithfulness in marriages and urged couples to keep their marital vows. He stressed that sinful acts destroy love, peace, and unity in homes, and advised couples to uphold God’s instructions on marriage to curb immorality, divorce, and domestic violence in society.

Similarly, the First Elder of Unity Chapel, Elder Orji Obinwa, Elder Okechi Aguwamba, and Dr. Nelson Ubani, praised the Adventist Youth Ministry as a formidable arm of the church. They encouraged youths to put into practice the training they receive in the church to grow in all areas of life.

Some youths, including Deacon Emmanuel Onyebuchi, Mr. Ibe Wisdom, and Mrs. Favour-Wisdom Ibe, expressed gratitude to God for His grace, vowing to avoid actions that would hinder their spiritual growth or bring reproach to the church and society.

The service featured prayers for youths, families, the state, and Nigeria, as well as the cutting of the anniversary cake.