October 22, (THEWILL) — Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has simultaneously flagged off the construction of Youth-Friendly Centres in 10 Local Government Areas of the state, signalling the commencement of a project planned for all 31 LGAs.
The launch, held concurrently on Tuesday, in Itu, Etinan, Urue-Offong Oruko, Mkpat Enin, Nsit Atai, Etim Ekpo, Nsit Ubium, Oron, Ikono and Eastern Obolo LGAs, marks a major step in implementing the youth development component of the state’s ARISE Agenda.
Governor Eno, represented by members of the State Executive Council in the various locations, said the centres are conceived as innovation hubs to drive creativity, skills development and entrepreneurship among young people.
He described the initiative as a strategic investment in human capital, not just physical infrastructure, with the aim of transforming ideas into viable ventures and empowering youths to contribute to economic growth.
In Itu, Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, Hon. Nsikak Ekong, said the hubs are part of the government’s plan to provide inclusive spaces for skills acquisition, innovation and productive engagement of young people.
At Etinan, the Commissioner for Water Resources and Sanitation, Dr Ubuo Ubuo, said the administration prioritises equipping youths with tools for a progressive and independent future.
Similarly, in Etim Ekpo, the Special Adviser on Co-operative and Rural Development, Alice Ekpenyong, said the centres will serve as platforms for mentorship, creativity and enterprise development.
The Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, at Ikono, reiterated that the facilities align with the governor’s pledge to give every youth access to opportunities for self-reliance.
In Mkpat Enin, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Umoh, said the centres are translating government policies into tangible investments that will connect and empower young people across the state.
Representatives in Nsit Ubium, Nsit Atai, Urue-Offong Oruko and Oron also affirmed that the centres will feature ICT hubs, co-working spaces, incubation units, and e-libraries to prepare youths for participation in a digitally-driven economy.
The Managing Director of Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation (AKICORP), Pastor Imo Bassey, who represented the governor in Oron, said the project is a deliberate investment in the future of the state and not a political gesture.
Governor Eno reiterated through his representatives that the ultimate goal is to ensure that no youth in Akwa Ibom is left without access to opportunities that can reshape their lives and contribute to the state’s development.
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