….Unveils new charter of empowerment for 100,000 youths

By Chioma Onuegbu

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has reaffirmed his pledge to establish a separate Ministry for Youth Development.

Speaking at a youth appreciation rally in Uyo, Eno expressed gratitude to Akwa Ibom youths for boycotting the recent nationwide protest.

The governor emphasized the importance of good followership, saying, “When we have good followers, we will have good leadership.” He commended the youths for listening to his appeal not to participate in the protest, citing concerns about hijacking and destruction of government facilities.

Eno announced plans to unbundle the Ministry of Youths and Sports Development, creating a new ministry headed by a commissioner under 45 years old. He also unveiled a charter of empowerment programs for 100,000 youths across 31 LGAs, including business support schemes, employment opportunities, and educational grants.

The governor announced various initiatives, including:

– A ₦20 million donation and a coaster bus for the Ibom Angels football team

– A database for youth employment, with 60,000 youths to receive a one-off business support scheme of ₦50,000 each

– 10,000 youths to be supported through the ARISE Entrepreneurial Scheme

– 3,000 youths to be employed through the Ibom Community Watch

– Increased bursary for students in public tertiary institutions

– Educational grants for students living with disabilities

– Entrepreneurial Accelerator Programme (EAP) with a ₦500,000 grant and ₦250,000 start-up capital

Former House of Representatives member, Onofiok Luke, praised the governor’s plea for youths not to participate in the recent protest, saving them from troubles. Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Monday Uko, described the event as an affirmation of the governor’s integrity as a promise keeper.”