Friday January 2, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has announced a major expansion of youth empowerment programmes, including skills training for 3,100 young people and an increase in student bursaries, following an endorsement rally by youths across the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The governor disclosed that the beneficiaries would be trained at the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre (DASAC) in the next academic session, with each of the 31 local government areas nominating 100 participants, jointly funded by the state and local councils.
He also announced a 150 per cent increase in student bursary payments, raising the amount from N20,000 to N50,000, effective January 2026.
Governor Eno spoke at a rally in Uyo where youths publicly endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and himself for re-election, citing what they described as people-oriented policies at the federal and state levels.
He said the new measures were aimed at strengthening human capital development and preparing young people for sustainable livelihoods, adding that his administration remained committed to policies that promote peace, inclusion and productivity among youths.
The governor further listed ongoing youth-focused initiatives, including the construction of youth-friendly centres in all local government areas, equipped with solar power and internet facilities, as well as the development of a comprehensive youth policy by the Ministry of Youth Development.