The Igbo Love for Money: Advocating for Youth Leadership as Human Capital
Conference: ISA 22nd Annual International Conference (2025)
Presenter(s): Nneka Umejiaku, Ngozi Chisom Uzoka
Tags: 2025 Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka Ngozi Chisom Uzoka Nneka Umejiaku
Abstract
Leadership as a human capital entails investing in youths through education, vocational studies, apprenticeship and mentoring for the purpose of development. While, Igbo's love for money is simply their culture, that propels them to work hard , create wealth and enjoy financial success. This study aims to strike a balance between Igbo youths quest for materialism and the need to invest in leadership as human capital. The work investigates the nexus between materialism and hard work. The study examined different legal framework that provides for youth protection and empowerment. The work X-rayed legal frameworks and analysed factors that exacerbate materialism amongst Igbo youths and proffered solutions. The work found that Igbo's have natural infinity to wealth, which make them work hard to enjoy financial success and wealth. However, where these inclinations are not tailored appropriately ,they engage in social vices. The study observed that currently, most Igbo youths wallow in poverty and crime due to lack of investment in leadership as human capital. Accordingly, the work recommends that the only solution that will emancipate the Igbo is to invest in leadership as human capital. Government intervention is critical in providing enabling environment to develop the youths and eliminate hindrances to their investment. Review of extant laws like 1999 Constitution and Child's Right is very apposite.
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