Rev. Father Anthony Adds Youth Empowerment to His Apostolate

By Paul Ejime

African capitals are brimming with youths who, mainly due to lack of gainful employment, often resort to crime and all forms of anti-social vices, including being hired as political thugs or joining armed groups, thereby fuelling insecurity and criminality in many countries.

Governments across the continent are struggling to keep the development-threatening malaise in check, while the collaboration or support by the private sector appears insufficient to tame this stubborn monster. The situation is further compounded by the so-called youth bulge and restiveness.

Since youths are said to be the leaders of tomorrow, this problem is not just about today, but existential and consequential for the future.

The dilemma is that public and private initiatives have been largely ineffective in addressing the problem. The typical response by officials, who watch an army of young people graduate from schools annually without a future, is that authorities are doing something. However, that “something” is not enough, so many only complain and hope.

But not Rev. Father Anthony Ikhenoba, who considers empowering youths, especially the less-privileged, as part of his Apostolate.

Consequently, he has put his thoughts into action by launching the Youth Digital Skills and AI Centre in Kaduna, in Northern Nigeria, under the Pathway Initiative for Guidance and Career Awareness charity.

“My motivation for establishing the Youth Digital Skills and Artificial Intelligence Centre is the growing need to address youth unemployment, underemployment, and the digital skills gap among young people in Kaduna State, particularly those who lack access to technology, quality digital education, career guidance, and economic opportunities,” said Fr Anthony on Thursday 29 October, in an interview in Bournemouth, United Kingdom.

Fr Anthony, from Edo State, Mid-Western Nigeria, raised in Zaria and Kaduna, is currently the Parish Priest of The Catholic Parish of The Annunciation & St. Edmund Campion, Bournemouth, South-West London.

“The charity seeks to empower young people, especially those from disadvantaged and underserved communities, by providing accessible, practical training in digital literacy, artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, and employability skills,” he said.

According to him, the aim is to “equip young people with the knowledge, confidence, and competencies needed to access decent employment, pursue freelancing and remote work, establish businesses, and develop innovative solutions to community challenges.”

He envisages that “Through strategic partnerships with educational institutions, community development organisations, and technology partners, the centre also aims to promote responsible AI use, reduce digital inequality, support lifelong learning, and create sustainable pathways to economic independence, social inclusion, and meaningful participation in the development of Kaduna State and beyond.”

This is consistent with the Federal and Kaduna State’s broader administrative push to turn Nigeria into a vibrant West African technology hub.

The Most Rev. Dr Mathew Man-oso Ndaoso, the Archbishop of the Diocese of Kaduna and current President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, opened the Centre on 18 August 2026, after a well-attended Mass.

The prelate said the Centre “is established to teach people how to use technology responsibly for the common good,” adding: “Like any other tool, AI has disadvantages, and that is why the Church is involved in teaching its ethical use.”

Referencing the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV’s Encyclical Letter on AI of 15 May 2026, the Archbishop said: “The Church supports technology because it can help humanity, but warned that it could also be used negatively if not properly guided.”

“God said, ‘Conquer the world, but he didn’t ask us to destroy the world. He asked us to conquer it and use it for the common good. And that is what technology is all about,” the prelate said.

He commended Fr Anthony, describing the initiative “as timely, given Nigeria’s security and food security challenges.”

The centre now has some 54 students and counting, including a nursing mother.

On the Centre’s funding and sustainability, Fr Anthony said: “…we, (as clerics) live on goodwill and the generosity of people, but it has always been my desire to support and empower people, particularly young people who are disadvantaged because of their economic circumstances.”

“I believe that talent and potential are not determined by background and with the right guidance, skills, resources, and opportunities, young people can overcome barriers and build better futures,” he affirmed. My guiding belief is that where there is a will, there is always a way.”

“So far, he said, “the project has been supported through the generosity of friends and family who believe in the vision.. We now seek the support of donors, philanthropic organisations, corporate partners, and other stakeholders to equip and sustain the entire project and reach more young people.”

“Our ultimate goal is to ensure that a young person’s economic background does not limit their potential or access to opportunities,” the cleric added.

Fr Anthony was ordained a priest at the Catholic Archdiocese of Kaduna, some 30 years ago, and has served in various capacities in Nigeria and abroad.

“Over the years, my journey has taken me through many experiences, challenges, and opportunities to serve people from different backgrounds and cultures. It has been a journey of faith, learning, and growth. Through every season, I have seen God’s faithfulness, and I have been continually reminded that missionary work is ultimately about loving people, sharing the Gospel, and being available to serve wherever God leads,” Fr Anthony concluded.

Some students described the Centre and Fr Anthony as “special gifts from God” and promised to make the most of the opportunity.

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