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Governor Umo Eno of Akwa-Ibom State has announced a huge reward for the state’s youth leadership across all 31 local government areas.
He offered a total of N310 million to acknowledge their decision to boycott the #EndBadGovernance protest, which took place nationwide from August 1st to 10th.
Mr Eno made the announcement during a thank-you rally at Uyo Township Stadium on Tuesday.
He revealed that each local government area would receive N10 million, to be distributed among the youth across political party lines.
“I want to express our appreciation to the youth leadership in each LGA for adhering to our request not to participate in the protest,” Eno said.
“This gesture is to thank you for not joining the nationwide demonstration, not because we oppose protests or are indifferent to the issues at hand.”
The governor stressed that while he understood the frustrations that led to the protests, he was concerned about the potential for violence and property damage.
“Our leaders have worked hard for 37 years to build our infrastructure. A moment of anger could undo all this progress,” he explained.
In addition to the cash reward, Governor Eno introduced several initiatives to support the youth.
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He announced the addition of 100 youths per local government area to the Ibom Community Watch, ensuring the program spans across political affiliations.
The governor also increased student bursaries, raising undergraduate support from N10,000 to N20,000 and professional course and postgraduate support from N20,000 to N30,000.
To address unemployment, Eno disclosed plans for a new employment portal managed by the Ministry of Labour and his Senior Special Assistant on ICT.
This digital platform will match job seekers with opportunities based on their qualifications and areas of specialization.
Additionally, Eno pledged N50,000 business grants to 5,000 youths monthly, aimed at kickstarting small businesses or farms. “This grant is a one-time opportunity to support you while you await formal employment,” he noted.
At the rally, stakeholders also urged the governor to expedite the completion of the Ibom Science Park, a project initiated by former Governor Obong Victor Attah, which was intended to advance the state’s technological capabilities but was left unfinished by subsequent administrations.
