The Ijaw Youth Council
(IYC) has charged companies operating in Niger Delta to grant gainful employment to the youth of their host communities in order to reduce youth restiveness.
The President of the council, Udengs Eradiri, who gave the charge at Obolo Nation First IYC Congress at Ikuru Town in Andoni Local Government Area, said as a company operating on the Ijaw land, the youth of the host community deserve meaningful employment.
Eradiri said going by the local content law, companies operating in rural areas are mandated to set aside three per cent of their total investment share for the training of the locals.
He, however, advised the youth to shun violence against companies operating in their various communities insisting that violence is an ill wind to community development.
“There are constructive means of engagement that will definitely lead to a positive outcome. The rules are consult, consolidate and non-violent confrontment. If these rules are followed religiously, the efforts will lead to positive results.
“It is not by blocking company gates or destroying properties belonging to these companies that will ensure adequate employment of the youth,” he said.
Contrary to claims, he said Ijaw youth are well educated and have relevant skills to make them employable in any labour industry.
Eradiri was categorical that IYC is not a cult group but a group that seeks the development of the Ijaw nation, and advised Ijaw youth to dust themselves from cult practices.
He regretted that IYC has brought so much exposure to the Ijaw nation, and has been painted in bad light because of the attitude of the few, but however, apologised for any negative attitude of the youths in respective communities in Ijawland.
Also speaking, the Okan Ama of Ikuru Town, HRM Aaron Ikuru, stressed the need for the education of the youth, regretting the high level of illiteracy among the youths.
He also charged the youths to ensure that they protect their communities and not become terrorists in the land.