RismadarVoice Reporters
January 11, 2026
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has urged youths in the state to prioritise self development and avoid actions capable of undermining the peace and unity currently enjoyed in the state.
The Governor gave the charge during a breakfast meeting with the leadership of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Akwa Ibom State Chapter.
Governor Eno said the establishment of a separate Ministry of Youth Development by his administration was deliberate and aimed at ensuring a clear focus on policies, programmes and initiatives tailored specifically to the needs and aspirations of youths in the state.
He noted that his administration has remained intentional about youth development through various training and empowerment initiatives, particularly those implemented via the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre (DASAC) and the Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurial Development Centre (Ibom-LED).
The Governor encouraged youths to take full advantage of the numerous opportunities available in the state to enhance their individual capacities and contribute meaningfully to collective development.
Speaking on the 2027 general elections, Governor Eno advised youths to maintain peace and resist being used by any individual or group to heat up the political atmosphere.
Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, described youths as leaders in their own right, adding that the NYCN serves as a critical platform for grooming future leaders.
Uwah, a former National Vice President of the council, said Governor Eno has demonstrated strong commitment to youth inclusion through appointments and empowerment programmes, urging the youths to remain peaceful and law-abiding to benefit more from government initiatives.
Also speaking, the Member representing Oron/Mbo/Okobo/Udung Uko/Urue Offong Oruko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Martins Esin, commended the governor for his dedication to youth development, training and empowerment.
Hon. Esin, who is also Chairman of the House Committee on Youth Development, praised the administration’s plan to establish youth-friendly centres across the 31 local government areas of the state. He assured the Governor of continued youth support, noting that many of the administration’s programmes are youth-focused.
On his part, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr Ekerette Ekanem, expressed appreciation to the governor for creating a standalone ministry for youth development and for sustaining empowerment and training programmes for young people in the state.
In their separate remarks, the State Chairman of the NYCN, Comrade Emmanuel Ekong; Akuku Utitofon from Ukanafun; Paul Ibara from Essien Udim; and Abigail Job from Urue Offong/Oruko, commended Governor Eno for his commitment to youth welfare and development.
They particularly applauded the creation of the Ministry of Youth Development and pledged continued support for the Governor and his administration.
