Akwa Ibom State Launches ₦1.69bn Youth Empowerment Program

On September 26, the Akwa Ibom State Government unveiled significant investments in youth empowerment and tourism infrastructure, including the disbursement of ₦1.69 billion in students’ bursaries and ₦50,000 start-up grants to 30,000 young individuals. This announcement was made by Dr Ekerette Ekanem, the Commissioner for Youth Development, and Dr Anieti Udofia, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, during a briefing on the achievements of Governor Umo Eno’s administration under the ARISE Agenda.

The Ministry of Youth Development, established as a standalone ministry in September 2024, has expanded its interventions to equip youth with skills and business support. The government has constructed Youth Development Centres in various locations, with training already underway.

Additionally, the monthly allowance for National Youth Service Corps members has increased from ₦5,000 to ₦20,000, benefiting approximately 98,000 corps members since August 2025. The state has also approved the recruitment of 7,000 young people into the civil service.