From Right: Comrade Francis, CRS Chapter Chairman, NYC, Finian Offiono, Comrade Archibong Bassey, NUJ, CRS Council, Comrade Mike Abang, NUJ Secretary, CRS Council.
By Ita Williams, Calabar
The Cross River State Chairman of the Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC), Comrade Francis Finian Offiono, has said youth leadership in the state must be guided by legality, structure, and accountability.
He stated this on Wednesday during a press conference at the Ernest Etim Bassey Press Centre, State Housing Estate, Calabar.
Offiono said the briefing was convened to address public concerns, correct misinformation, and outline the direction of the NYC, stressing that youth governance should not be driven by speculation or institutional disorder.
He explained that the Congress exists to coordinate youth engagement, bridge the gap between youths and government, and promote leadership development, civic responsibility, economic empowerment, peace, and democratic values.
The NYC chairman disclosed that new structures, including a State Executive Council, local government youth councils, and specialized committees on empowerment, education, peacebuilding, media, and governance advocacy, were being put in place.
He added that youths should expect capacity-building programmes, policy advocacy, constructive dialogue, and support for entrepreneurship.
Offiono also clarified that the Nigerian Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) currently lacks legal recognition, citing the withdrawal of its registration by the Corporate Affairs Commission and its suspension by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development.
He warned that activities organized under the NYCN, including a proposed summit in Bekwarra Local Government Area, were illegal, advising youths to stay away.
He assured that the NYC remains committed to dialogue, inclusion, and lawful engagement, adding that Cross River youths should expect order, structure, and impactful programmes aimed at peace, progress, and responsible participation.
