Akwa Ibom makes history as it marks World Youth Skills Day with vibrant programs in Uyo.
New youth ministry, bamboo jobs scheme, and innovation hub launched to empower young talents.
For the first time since its inception by the United Nations in 2015, Akwa Ibom State officially joined the rest of the world to mark the World Youth Skills Day, making history with a colorful event held in Uyo. The celebration brought together young Nigerians, top government officials, and development partners, highlighting a new chapter in youth-focused collaboration within the state.
While this year marked Nigeria’s 10th observance of the global event, it was the maiden edition for Akwa Ibom. The occasion served as a platform to strengthen ties between the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the state government on initiatives that benefit young people.
Two major youth-focused programs were introduced during the event. The first, NiYA Ambassadors, is designed to expand the reach of the Nigerian Youth Academy by creating a network of grassroots change-makers. The second, the Bamboo Youth Empowerment Program, is a bold initiative that brings together the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Akwa Ibom State Government, and the National Bamboo Farmers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NBFPMAN). The program aims to tap into the economic and environmental benefits of bamboo cultivation to create green jobs and sustainable income for youths.
Another major highlight was the announcement that Governor Umo Eno has created a new Ministry of Youth Development in the state a direct result of advocacy efforts by the Federal Ministry. The move was widely praised as a critical step in aligning federal and state-level efforts to empower the youth more effectively.
Also unveiled was the concept of the Arise Youth-Friendly Hub a proposed multipurpose center that will serve as a hub for innovation, mentorship, entrepreneurship, and youth engagement across Akwa Ibom. The project mirrors the national Youth House model and is expected to play a central role in nurturing young talents and ideas.
Stakeholders at the event pledged continued support for initiatives that equip Nigerian youths with the tools they need to succeed in today’s global economy. The day’s events underscored a growing shift toward practical, inclusive, and community-based approaches to youth development in the country.
