From Fred Itua, Abuja
Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Obiora Okonkwo, yesterday, called on the Federal Government to establish apprenticeship centres in order to curb rising unemployment in Nigeria.
The Anambra-born entrepreneur, who said this in Abuja, said it had become necessary for the government to adopt the system, having been tested and trusted over time.
He spoke when Bob-Manuel Udokwu, special adviser to Anambra State Governor on Entertainment, Leisure and Tourism, led a delegation of youths on a courtesy visit.
The delegation was on a visit to appreciate Okonkwo for his support.
He said creating a centre for the purpose of prioritising apprenticeship would go a long way in creating employment and ensuring self reliance, particularly among youths.
The airline chairman said his foundation had embarked on research on apprenticeship, popularly called ‘nwa boi’ to find out why it had remained effective over time.
The businessman said adopting the South East apprenticeship model would go a long way in tackling youth restiveness.
Earlier, Udokwu said: “I am here with the winners of Anambra Talent Show Season Two on a courtesy visit to say thank you to the chairman of United Nigeria Airlines.
“He was magnanimous enough to say those who win will get the opportunity to fly to any part of Nigeria at any point in time.
“So, we are here to say thank you to the company and the chairman, who is so benevolent.”
He said, although the show was not funded by the Anambra State government, the Governor, Charles Soludo, was interested in youth development.
Udokwu, who is a veteran Nollywood actor, said Nigerian youths were multi-talented but required mentorship and support to explore their talents.
Nwolisa Paul, student of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, with “Legend 101” as stage name, won in the dancing category of the Anambra Talent Show.
Meanwhile, Jeremiah Sobechukwu, known as “Ecosafe Enterprise,” also a student, emerged winner in the technovation category.
Akaenyi Chukwubuikem, a graduate of Theatre Arts and Film Studies, with the stage name “Ziggy Michael,” emerged winner in the acting category.
Okeke Chukwuebuka with the stage name “Howdy” and a pharmacist, won in the music category.