By Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
Abuja, Nigeria
Darlington Ugota, an Abuja-based business mogul and founder of the real estate firm, Esthington Group, has issued a powerful challenge to Nigerian youths: acquire skills and knowledge to prepare for the progressive opportunities that are constantly emerging.
Speaking with journalists in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Ugota expressed regret over the state of youth employability, noting that a significant number of young people lack the necessary skills and required knowledge to be hired. He emphasized a critical truth: “Opportunity comes every day; that’s the truth but not everybody is prepared to embrace it.”
“Those who are prepared, they say they are lucky,” Ugota explained. “But those who are not prepared will be regretting and saying all sorts of things that the government is not trying. So, I’m just charging the youths to prepare for the future they want.”
Ugota, who has observed the transformation of the region, urged young Nigerians to shift their mindset from expecting unearned success. “I still know to a large extent there are still people who are roaming the streets believing that money will just fall from heaven one day,” he said. To these individuals, he offered a clear message: “hard work pays” and the current stage of their lives is the time to “invest in yourself by building capacity.”
He stressed that the nation’s progress hinges on the collective success of its youth. “The state will only progress when we have so many youths who are doing well,” he stated, encouraging them to be inspired by the recent developments and leadership in Ebonyi State.
Ugota also took time to commend the transformational leadership in Ebonyi State, noting the significant developments since its creation 29 years ago. He reminisced about the state’s early days, contrasting the past with the visible improvements in infrastructure and the education system today.
Ultimately, Ugota’s message serves as both a caution and an encouragement: While opportunities are abundant, only those who actively build their capacity will be positioned to seize them and contribute to Nigeria’s collective advancement.