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Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has reiterated his commitment to establishing a separate Ministry for Youth Development. Speaking during a youth appreciation rally in Uyo, the governor commended the state’s youth for their decision to boycott the recent nationwide protests, a move he had previously encouraged.
Eno stressed the significance of responsible followership in governance, stating, “When we have good followers, we will have good leadership.” He voiced concerns about potential violence and the destruction of public property, which he feared could arise if the protests were hijacked. His appreciation was directed at the youths for adhering to his request to stay away from the unrest.
As part of his administration’s focus on youth empowerment, the governor announced plans to divide the existing Ministry of Youths and Sports Development into two entities. The newly formed Ministry of Youth Development will be headed by a commissioner under 45 years old, signaling a drive towards younger leadership.
Governor Eno also unveiled a robust charter of youth empowerment programs aimed at supporting 100,000 youths across the state’s 31 local government areas. Key initiatives include business support schemes, employment opportunities, and educational grants.
Among the initiatives announced were:
– A ₦20 million donation and the provision of a coaster bus to the Ibom Angels football team.
– A comprehensive youth employment database, with 60,000 youths to receive a one-time business support grant of ₦50,000 each.
– Support for 10,000 youths under the ARISE Entrepreneurial Scheme.
– Employment for 3,000 youths through the Ibom Community Watch initiative.
– Increased bursaries for students in public tertiary institutions.
– Educational grants tailored for students living with disabilities.
– The Entrepreneurial Accelerator Programme (EAP), offering a ₦500,000 grant alongside ₦250,000 in start-up capital.
Onofiok Luke, a former member of the House of Representatives, lauded the governor’s intervention in preventing the youth from engaging in the protests, saying it spared them from potential legal and personal troubles. Similarly, Monday Uko, Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, praised Governor Eno, calling him a “promise keeper” who has consistently delivered on his pledges to the youth.
