By Ike Uchechukwu, CALABAR

The Cross River State Commissioner for Youth Development, Barrister Odum Ukam, has reaffirmed that the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) remains the only officially recognised umbrella body for youth activities in the state, dismissing claims by other groups seeking similar status.

Barrister Ukam made the clarification on Monday while speaking at the 2026 Solemn Assembly organised by the Cross River State chapter of the NYCN in Calabar.

Addressing ongoing controversies surrounding youth leadership and claims of supremacy by other organisations, he stated that the Ministry of Youth Development had convened meetings with all parties to clarify the legal and administrative position of youth bodies in the state.

According to the commissioner, the ministry has not received any official correspondence from the Federal Ministry of Youth Development mandating recognition of any other organisation as an umbrella youth body in Cross River State.

“As a law-abiding government, we rely strictly on official directives. Up to this moment, there is no communication directing us to recognise any other youth body. Therefore, the National Youth Council of Nigeria remains the umbrella body for all youth social activities in Cross River State,” Ukam said.

He challenged individuals or groups spreading contrary claims to produce verifiable documents to support their assertions, stressing that the matter has been administratively settled following engagements with representatives of both the NYCN and the National Youth Congress.

The commissioner also disclosed that an official statement would be issued by the ministry in the coming days to formally restate the government’s position and guide all youth organisations accordingly.

Beyond policy matters, Barrister Ukam commended the NYCN for organising the Solemn Assembly, describing the programme as spiritually uplifting and timely.

He noted that the prayers offered for the state, the government, security agencies, and young people reflected a growing understanding among youths that they must not only make demands on government but also partner with it spiritually and physically for development.

“This programme shows that young people are ready to partner with government. The message of love, unity and togetherness preached here will also help me strengthen harmony within the ministry,” he added.

Earlier, NYCN State Chairman, Comrade Olayi Emmanuel, explained that the assembly was organised to spiritually commit the year 2026 into God’s hands, with prayers focused on peace, unity, and opportunities for youths across the state.

The event also featured prayers for the governor, security agencies, and young people, as well as dialogue sessions addressing youth-police relations. It concluded with goodwill messages and a vote of thanks by the NYCN State Deputy Secretary, Comrade Vincent Asam, who appreciated participants for their presence and support.