Gov Eno to launch youth empowerment programme for 5,000 Akwa Ibom youths

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has announced plans to host a youth engagement and appreciation rally on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at the Uyo Township Stadium. This event will mark the launch of a significant empowerment programme aimed at uplifting 5,000 youths across the state.

The governor made this disclosure during the September edition of the State Government’s Monthly Covenant Prayer Service, held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo. The rally, coupled with various engagement and empowerment initiatives, serves as a fulfilment of Governor Eno’s commitment to reward the youth for their steadfastness during a recent nationwide protest, which they avoided following his advice.

Governor Eno revealed that the rally would include representatives from the 31 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state, with 200 youths selected from each LGA. He emphasised that the names of the beneficiaries would be published for verification, ensuring transparency in the selection process.

The Governor stated, “We are going to have a rally to engage and empower our youths. On that day, we will also explain how we plan to support 5,000 youths in our state immediately.”

In addition to youth empowerment, the event will feature the empowerment of 2,000 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) from across Akwa Ibom State. Governor Eno highlighted that these SMEs have undergone a rigorous selection process, including a needs assessment, to ensure they are genuine and verifiable.

“We believe if we support these SMEs, they will help facilitate socio-economic growth in our state. That is my idea of empowerment,” he stated.

Governor Eno also announced a new approach to the distribution of food items to the less privileged, bypassing agents and middlemen. This direct distribution will be managed through the Bulk Purchase Agency, ensuring that aid reaches those in need without unnecessary delays or complications.

Furthermore, the Governor elaborated on the state government’s plan to purchase two Bombardier 900 CRJ aircraft to bolster the fleet of Ibom Air. He assured that the acquisition would be funded directly by the state without resorting to bank loans, a move he described as “making great business sense” for the long-term benefit of Akwa Ibom.

Looking ahead to the forthcoming local government elections, Governor Eno, who is also the leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, announced that the party would kick off its campaigns on Thursday, September 12. He urged all party flag bearers and stakeholders to work diligently to secure victories in all 31 LGAs, while reaffirming his commitment to ensuring fair and credible elections across the state.