By Solomon OKPO
The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, has reiterated the state government’s commitment to youth development, pledging sustained support through the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno.
The Commissioner made the assurance during a courtesy visit by members of the Nsit Atai Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria over the weekend, where she urged young people to embrace entrepreneurial skills as a pathway to self-reliance and economic growth.
Ibanga commended the Youth Council for its cooperation with the state government and pledged to involve the body in future programmes aimed at advancing youth welfare and empowerment. She expressed appreciation for the visit and reaffirmed her readiness to partner with youth-focused organisations.
Earlier, the Nsit Atai Chapter Coordinator of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Ndianabasi Nkpounam Bassey, pledged the Council’s support for the re-election of Bola Tinubu and Governor Eno in the 2027 general elections, noting that continuity in leadership would ensure the completion of ongoing development projects.
Bassey also reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to the implementation of the ARISE Agenda, which he described as a blueprint for holistic development in the state. He used the occasion to unveil the Council’s 2026 Action Plan and solicited collaboration from the Ministry in executing its programmes.
According to him, the Council’s planned activities include social engagement initiatives, public enlightenment campaigns, and advocacy against youth-related social vices such as thuggery and electoral malpractice. He emphasized the importance of supporting skills acquisition programmes introduced by the state government.
In their separate remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of Eminence Group, Emmanuel Okon, and a former Leader of the Nsit Atai Legislative Council, Owoedimo George, also pledged support for the re-election bids and programmes of the state government, urging citizens to respect constituted authorities and promote responsible civic conduct.
The Vice Chairman of Uyo Senatorial District of the Youth Council, Ubong Amanam, commended the Commissioner for her leadership and assured of efforts to mobilise greater support for youth-driven initiatives across the district.
The visit, according to the delegation, was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the state government and aligning youth-focused programmes with the ARISE Agenda, particularly in areas of youth welfare, security, and social stability.
