Young people in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area now have a new platform to acquire skills, explore their creativity and prepare for greater opportunities, following the commissioning of the ARISE Youth Development Centre in the area by the Akwa Ibom State Government.
The facility was commissioned as part of activities marking the 39th anniversary of Akwa Ibom State, with stakeholders describing the project as an investment in the future of the state’s young people.
Representing Governor Umo Eno at the commissioning, the Political Leader of Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, DIG Udom Ekpo Udom (Rtd.), expressed appreciation to the Governor for providing the facility and other development projects in the area.
He urged young people in Etim Ekpo to take full advantage of the centre by acquiring relevant skills and using the opportunities provided to become self-reliant.
DIG Udom said the people of Etim Ekpo were pleased with the Governor’s development initiatives, adding that the administration had demonstrated commitment to bringing governance and development closer to the people.
He also said the people of Etim Ekpo would continue to support the Governor’s administration, while noting the Governor’s commitment to delivering more projects in the area.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr. Ekerette Ekanem, described the centre as an important intervention aimed at addressing the skills gap among young people.
Dr. Ekanem expressed particular excitement that the facility was built in his hometown , describing the project as an investment in the future of young people.
“You have come to bridge the skills gap. You have provided these facilities in Etim Ekpo and across the 31 Local Government Areas for our youths to acquire skills and become self-reliant.”
He noted that the solar-powered facility features a creative centre, multipurpose hall, digital library and other facilities designed to provide young people with opportunities for learning, creativity and skills development.
Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, Mr. Gideon Uwah, described the Governor as a leader whose administration had brought several development projects to the area.
Mr. Uwah noted that the commissioning marked the third time the Governor had visited Etim Ekpo as part of the ongoing series of project commissioning across the state.
As echoed by the youths, the Chairman assured that President Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Member Clement Jimbo will be returned for another term in office, same as House of Assembly candidate, Boniface Ebewo.
He said the Youth Development Centre was particularly significant because of its potentials to expose young people to opportunities and help secure their future.
Others who spoke include, House of Assembly member, Hon Mfon Idung and the village head of Utu Ikot Mbente, Chief Etop John Ekanem.
The commissioning forms part of the activities marking Akwa Ibom State at 39, with the state government highlighting investments in youth development and grassroots infrastructure across the 31 local government areas.
