Asaba, Delta State – July 30, 2025 – Former Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has been honored as the Living Legend of Delta State Youth during the official flag-off of the 2025 International Youth Week Celebration.
The event, held in Asaba, was organized by the Delta State Youth Council under the leadership of Amb. Comr. Okorie Kenneth, the State Council Chairman. The recognition celebrates Okowa’s contributions to youth development and leadership empowerment during his tenure as governor.
In his speech, Okowa expressed gratitude to the youths for their presence and support. “First, I want to thank all the youths for being here today and to congratulate the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Delta State branch, for keeping the promise of representing our young people,” he said. “I was truly excited to hear the chairman speak because it shows we still have youths who can speak truth to their peers across the state.”
Okowa praised the keynote address delivered by Prof. Hillary Ijeoma Owama, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics) of Delta State University, Abraka. He described the lecture as thought-provoking and relevant to both young and older generations, especially those who feel marginalized. He emphasized that building the nation is a shared responsibility between government and citizens. “Government at all levels cannot do it alone,” Okowa said. “Youths must prepare themselves to use their energy and God-given gifts to work with government for a complete turnaround of our nation.”
Speaking about the award, Hon. Innocent Esewezie, Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, said the honor was well deserved. “When you serve well, you get recognized. This is the first time we are seeing a former governor so honored by the youths of Delta State,” Esewezie stated.
He credited Okowa with giving young people opportunities to serve in leadership positions. “Look at the political appointees, commissioners, council chairmen, and even the current state leadership — many are within the youth age bracket. He didn’t just model us; he identified and empowered us across all LGAs,” Esewezie added.
Esewezie also shared his personal story, explaining how Okowa’s administration shaped his career. “I was 35 years old when he appointed me as SSA on Youth Development, later as Executive Assistant on Youth Development, DG of Community Youths, and now I’m serving my second term as council chairman. Most of my colleagues are also young leaders in their forties. That is the impact he has made, and today we say kudos to him,” he said.
The 2025 International Youth Week Celebration in Delta State continues with a series of events aimed at inspiring, empowering, and mobilizing young people to take active roles in building a better society.
