Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji emphasizes the urgent need to combat youth unemployment in Nigeria, referring to it as a “ticking time bomb” linked to rising crime. He criticizes the deplorable conditions of correctional facilities and calls for government action to create job opportunities and uphold justice. His address addresses the worsening security and economic challenges facing the nation.
In a recent address, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), emphasized the urgent need to tackle youth unemployment in Nigeria. He characterized the situation as a “ticking time bomb,” linking rising crime rates to the increasing disillusionment among unemployed youth. Archbishop Ugorji noted that the lack of opportunities leads to vulnerability to radicalization and recruitment into violent groups.
He further expressed concern about the implications of this crisis, stating that many youths are resorting to criminal behaviors such as kidnapping, robbery, and drug abuse. Consequently, he observed that they sometimes turn to extraordinary spiritual practices in search of quick wealth and purpose. The Archbishop lamented the spiritual compromises some youths make, engaging with paganism and ritual practices, which he deemed alarming for their faith.
Archbishop Ugorji urged both Federal and State governments to prioritize job creation, highlighting the dire consequences if they fail to do so. He insisted that without consistent, large-scale job opportunities, Nigeria risks losing the battle against insecurity and violence.
On the topic of incarcerated youths, he criticized the conditions of Nigerian correctional facilities, citing challenges such as overcrowding, unsanitary environments, and lack of basic necessities. He described the situation as grim, with many inmates awaiting trial for extended periods in deplorable conditions.
The Archbishop also condemned the physical and psychological mistreatment of inmates as inhumane, asserting that it inflicts severe emotional distress and undermines their dignity. He called for judicial reforms to expedite legal processes, thereby reducing prolonged detention without trial.
He expressed concern over Nigeria’s escalating security crisis and economic difficulties, noting that recent economic reforms have led to increased inflation and widespread poverty. Archbishop Ugorji observed that communities are suffering from violence, displacement, and loss of homes due to ongoing brutality.
In closing, he urged for the implementation of correctional reforms to uphold justice and human dignity in Nigeria, while acknowledging the efforts of security personnel yet questioning the government’s deployment of advanced technology to support these initiatives.
Abah Anthony John contributed to this story.
Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji’s address sheds light on the critical issue of youth unemployment in Nigeria, portraying it as a significant driver of crime and radicalization. He called for urgent government intervention to create job opportunities and improve conditions within correctional facilities. Furthermore, he highlighted the dire state of Nigeria’s security and economic landscape, advocating for reforms to restore justice and human dignity.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
