Looking beyond immediate programs, the member of the Clergy of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo revealed plans to establish a Catholic Youth Hub, a center dedicated to providing young people with access to technology, skills training, and development opportunities.
“One of our bigger dreams is to have a youth hub where young people can access the internet for learning and technology-driven projects, possibly even robotics and artificial intelligence. We want them to develop skills that not only make them self-sufficient but also contribute to national development,” the Nigerian Catholic Priest said.
He added, “The hub will also serve as a skills training center for those who are not formally educated, equipping them with vocational skills and, where possible, providing them with start-up kits to support their entrepreneurial journey. However, the realization of this vision depends on securing financial backing.”
“We are praying for sponsorship or funding. We do not know where it will come from yet, but we remain hopeful that support will emerge,” Fr. Idoko said.
He emphasized that the success of these initiatives depends on the active collaboration of various stakeholders within the Catholic Church, including parish priests, diocesan chaplains, and the laity.
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“The Church must work in solidarity to support young people. They should not be left to face these societal challenges alone. We need structures at the parish and diocesan levels to keep these initiatives alive,” the Catholic Youth animator said.
He also underscored the importance of forming support groups to provide encouragement and accountability for young people.
“A strong support network will help youth resist negative societal pressures. When they meet regularly to share experiences and challenges, they remain steadfast in their commitment to live differently,” the Nigerian Catholic Priest said.
Fr. Idoko remains optimistic that these efforts will bring about lasting change among Catholic youths in Nigeria.
“Our message is simple: Be humane, be kind, show love, pursue peace, and live in unity. We are not merely interested in numbers; we seek genuine transformation. If we can change even a small group, the impact will naturally spread,” he stated.
Fr. Idoko added, “With these ongoing initiatives, the Catholic Church in Nigeria is taking significant strides toward rebuilding moral values among young people, ensuring they grow into responsible, compassionate, and purpose-driven individuals.”
Abah Anthony John is a Nigerian Journalist with great enthusiasm and interest for Catholic Church Communication and Media Apostolate. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from Benue State University, Makurdi, Benue State Nigeria. He has vast experience in Print, Electronic and Multi-Media Production.
