The plethora of hotels that are literally springing up in every corner of our streets, especially in the main cities of Imo State – Owerri in particular have become disconcerting for many in the State.

Worried by the increasing number of unemployed in Imo State, the Catholic Bishop of Orlu Diocese, Most Rev. Augustine Ukwuoma has appealed to Imo millionaires to have mercy on this army of unemployed youths and invest in manufacturing industry instead of hotels.

Speaking during the funeral of an industrialist, Sir Godwin Okwara at St. Mary’s Catholic Church Amaifeke Orlu recently, Bishop Ukwuoma observed that hotels have taken grip of major cities in Imo State, while the state is bereft of industries that could absorb thousands of youths roaming our streets in search of non-existing jobs.

He appealed to Imo businessmen to minimize their thirst for hotel business and consider investing in other areas that could help absorb the growing number of unemployed youths in the state.

The prelate said that small scale industries could grow the local economy and help teach our youths how to produce certain goods, which could help them be on their own.

Bishop Ukwuoma appealed to government to encourage businessmen who want to invest on manufacturing industry in the state by providing the enabling environment and incentives.

He also called on government to embark on progammes that will minimize unemployment in the state.

He warned that if unemployment was not tackled by the state and Federal Government, more youths will be forced into robbery, kidnapping, prostitution and other criminal acts.

The Bishop expressed regret that many Nigerians are stashing their money in both local and foreign banks instead of injecting such money in the production of goods and services that can enhance the overall development of the economy of the country and reduce unemployment.

Some industrialists in the state have described the plea by Bishop Ukwuoma as appropriate, and have called on the governor to pay some attention to the Owerri Industrial Layout along Onitsha Road and provide access road into the area. This they said will encourage industrialists who have already employed a good number of young people.

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