Youth reform, empowerment, cornerstone for development — Ehiliz

As Nigeria’s demographic reality continues to tilt heavily toward a youthful population, renowned gospel artiste, television personality, youth mentor, and entrepreneur, Ehigiamusoe Elizabeth Ngozi, well known as Ehiliz, has called for urgent and sustained investment in youth reform and empowerment, describing it as a non-negotiable pillar for national growth and stability.

In a statement, she said real progress couldn’t be built on infrastructure alone, but it has to start with people. “Youth reform, empowerment, a cornerstone for development,” Ehiliz said. She stressed that policies must move beyond rhetoric and create tangible pathways for education, skills training, and civic participation for young persons.

According to her, any meaningful progress in Nigeria must begin with deliberate policies that prioritise the education, skills development, and economic inclusion of young people. “Nigeria’s future hinges on how effectively it can harness the energy, creativity, and resilience of its youth population.

“Youth reform is not just a social responsibility; it is an economic strategy. When young people are equipped with the right tools —education, mentorship, and opportunities — they become drivers of innovation and productivity rather than victims of unemployment and disillusionment,” she added.

Highlighting the growing disconnect between formal education and market demands, Ehiliz noted that many graduates lack the practical skills required to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving economy. She, therefore, advocated for a restructured educational framework that integrates vocational training, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship from an early stage.

Beyond education, she stressed the need for systemic reforms that address barriers to youth participation in governance and decision-making processes.

“Young Nigerians must not only be seen as beneficiaries of policies but also as active contributors to nation-building. Empowerment goes beyond job creation. It involves giving young people a voice, a stake, and a sense of ownership in the future of their country,” she stated.

Through her non-governmental organisation (NGO), Ehiliz Support Initiative (ESI), she has demonstrated her commitment towards impacting and transforming the lives of youths and students.

“The Ehiliz Support Initiative is designed to impact on youths and children positively through training, seminars, and sensitisation programmes against the backdrop of morally bankrupt society,” she added.

According to her, “the impact of social media is having a tow on students as well as other vices. ESI instills in the youth a true sense of patriotism, moral virtues, positive mindset and provides a new identity of value and service -oriented to the youth and children.”

With over 32 years of experience in gospel music and 12 years as a television host, Ehiliz is the convener of “Vivid View Talk Show”, a programme dedicated to inspiring and educating Nigerian youths.

The show focuses on character development, discipline, moral values