Philanthropist and security expert, Chief Bibopere Ajube, has warned that Nigeria risks deeper social and economic crises if wealthy citizens fail to support government efforts in tackling unemployment.
Ajube gave the warning on Wednesday at a Youth Summit held to mark the 13th anniversary of Gallery Security Services Ltd. (GSSL) in Agadagba-Obon, Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The GSSL founder said he had deliberately invested in human capital and community development to reduce social vices and improve livelihoods, urging other privileged Nigerians to do the same.
According to him, all well-to-do individuals must commit resources to their communities to curb rising joblessness, which he described as a major driver of insecurity and crime.
“Our coming to this world is to impact our environment. Whatever God gives me is for my people, not only me and my family.
“That is why we are doing this and we are not going to be tired. If we don’t find solution to unemployment, the problem will consume us,” he said.
Ajube, a respected community leader, added that GSSL was established to combat insecurity in coastal areas of the Niger Delta, stressing that residents must take responsibility for protecting their communities.
“The conventional security agencies are just to assist us, you know that it’s left for us in coastal areas to do the work. Let us all see security as a personal responsibility.
“That is the only way we can have peace in our communities. I will never leave you people alone. I am ready to serve you till I am old and die,” he said.
Speaking earlier at a news conference, GSSL General Manager, Mr. Anthony Onyeisue, announced that 1,200 youths would be empowered during the summit as part of the organisation’s efforts to reduce crime.
Onyeisue said the large population of unemployed youths posed a threat to societal stability.
”We believe here in GSSL also that one of the ways we can actually reduce crime across this country is to create valuable jobs for our youth population so that they can also contribute to the society,” he said.
He added that the outfit had significantly enhanced safety in coastal communities, contributing to both security and economic development through its operations.
According to him, GSSL has demonstrated “amiable courage and professionalism” in confronting sea piracy, oil theft, pipeline vandalism and other criminal activities, complementing the work of government security agencies.
He further noted that the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility interventions had provided free medical services, cash support and non-interest loans to vulnerable households across the region.
The Youth Summit, themed “Strengthening Waterways Security and Community Safety by Tackling Illegal Bunkering, Sea Piracy, Kidnapping, Cultism and Drug Abuse,” also featured lectures on youth vulnerability, drug use, cultism, violence and other social issues.
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