Cross River Governor Otu Launches N1.5bn Youth Programme

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, approved the release of N1.499 billion for the Cross River Youth Skill Acquisition and Start-up Empowerment Programme during a State Executive Council meeting. This initiative aims to equip 2,620 young individuals with vocational, technical, and digital skills, along with business start-up equipment.

Governor Otu emphasized that this program is a strategic investment in the future of Cross River, focusing on creating a new generation of entrepreneurs. The beneficiaries will receive practical training in market-driven skills and will be provided with start-up kits to establish viable businesses.

The approved items for the programme include industrial sewing machines, laptops, and various agricultural and processing equipment. Otu stated that the initiative aims to reduce youth unemployment and strengthen Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as key drivers of economic growth.

He reiterated that empowering youths is essential for lasting peace and shared prosperity in the state.