Gov Eno Flags Off Construction Of Youth-Friendly Centres In A’Ibom

UYO
Gov Umo Eno has flagged off the construction of Youth-Friendly Centres in 10 pilot local government areas across Akwa Ibom.
The pilot local government areas are: Etinan, Uruan, Mkpat Enin, Urue Offong/Oruko, Itu, Etim Ekpo, Nsit Atai, Nsit Ubium, Eastern Obolo, and Ikono, all selected for being the first to provide land for the project, which shows their readiness to partner in youth advancement.
Each centre would feature a Creative Development Hub, ICT Centre, E-Library, Recreation Lounge, Co-Working Space, and a Coffee Shop, all within a secure, solar-powered environment. 
These facilities are designed to nurture creativity, inspire entrepreneurship, and provide conducive spaces for personal and professional development.
The governor said the future of Akwa Ibom depends on the empowerment of its youth through sustainable structures that support their aspirations and talents, adding that the proposed Youth-Friendly Centres would become incubators of ideas, innovation, and enterprise for the next generation.
He said, “this initiative also aligns seamlessly with the ARISE Agenda, which prioritises human capacity development as a catalyst for inclusive growth and social transformation.
“Youth empowerment is beyond a policy statement. It is a deliberate strategy to equip young citizens with the tools to compete, create, and contribute meaningfully to society.
“As the flag-off holds today across the pilot local government areas, it signals a new dawn for Akwa Ibom’s youth, a future where potential meets purpose, and where the dreams of young people find fertile ground to grow,” Eno explained.
The state commissioner for youth development, Dr Ekanem Paul, described the youth centre concept as a visionary initiative that underscores the Eno-led administration’s commitment to youth development, innovation, and empowerment.
Paul said from the onset of Eno’s administration, the governor has consistently emphasised that the youth constitute the backbone of the ARISE Agenda, and that investing in their growth, creativity, and productivity remains central to building a prosperous Akwa Ibom.
“The construction of the Youth-Friendly Centres, is a strategic step toward providing safe, functional, and innovative spaces where young people can learn, collaborate, and build the skills required for success in the modern economy,” he stressed.