The Methodist Bishop of Item Diocese, Rt. Rev. Ikechukwu Emezi Nkulo, has called on the Federal Government and state governors to urgently roll out large-scale employment initiatives as the most effective strategy to reduce insecurity and social unrest in Nigeria.

Speaking on Sunday in Umuahia, during the Vision Africa Radio Talent Show 2025, Bishop Nkulo stressed that the rising wave of banditry, kidnapping, and attacks by unknown gunmen stems largely from widespread youth unemployment and frustration.

He argued that when young people are engaged in meaningful work, their energy is directed toward productivity rather than crime and violence.

“Governance is not all about aggrandizement. The populace needs to be employed, and that should be done urgently to diffuse tension around the country,” he said.

The cleric lamented the worsening economic hardship faced by many Nigerians, blaming it on selfishness and greed among political leaders at different levels of government. He warned that without deliberate efforts to empower the youth, insecurity would continue to thrive.

“Youths are easily attracted to restive and nefarious activities when they are not employed, and that explains the issues of banditry, unknown gunmen, and kidnapping,” Bishop Nkulo added.

Earlier at the event, Archbishop Sunday Ndukwo Onuoha, President of Vision Africa, explained that the annual Icons Radio Talent Show aims to build peace, nurture leadership, and create employment opportunities for young Nigerians.

The bishop’s remarks come amid growing public calls for sustainable economic reforms to address unemployment and insecurity across the country.