The Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Youth Wing has officially flagged off its campaign activities across the seven Local Government Areas of Cross River South Senatorial District, unveiling a youth-focused agenda centred on engagement, empowerment, education and digital inclusion.
The initiative, convened by Obong Ekpe Eyo Ita Okon, is designed to take youth engagement directly to the grassroots through town-hall meetings where young people will have the opportunity to speak directly on issues of governance, education, employment and development.
Among the key initiatives unveiled are the provision of free Starlink internet services in tertiary institutions across Cross River South, expanded student bursary and educational support, youth empowerment programmes, skills acquisition and entrepreneurship opportunities, as well as sustained engagement with student and youth organisations across the seven LGAs.
Speaking at the flag-off, Obong Ekpe Eyo Ita Okon said the initiative was about giving young people more than a platform for political participation, but creating practical opportunities that could improve their education, livelihoods and future prospects.
The event attracted student leaders from tertiary institutions across the district, led by their SUG Presidents, as well as Presidents of NACRISS Worldwide, SOCRISS, NANS Cross River State and other student bodies.
Also in attendance were NYCN Southern Chapter coordinators, APC Youth Chapter leaders across the senatorial district and leaders of various youth support groups.
Speaking on behalf of APC Chapter Youth Leaders, Effiom Yellow Duke called for unity and greater youth participation in governance, noting that young people must be actively involved in shaping the future of the district.
Representing youth support groups, Margaret Effiom commended the initiative and emphasised the importance of education, empowerment, entrepreneurship and skills development in creating opportunities for young people.
On behalf of student leaders, Comrade Vordina Ebong, SUG President of the University of Calabar, welcomed the planned free Starlink internet services, describing digital connectivity as essential to modern learning, research and access to global opportunities. He also called for sustained engagement with students beyond the launch.
Also speaking on behalf of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), the Vice Chairman, Southern Senatorial District, Comrade Benjamin Edet, welcomed the initiative and commended the organisers for creating a platform that brings together student leaders and youth organisations. He stressed the importance of translating youth participation into tangible opportunities and meaningful development.
In his remarks, Comrade Kelvin Joseph Enyiam, Special Assistant to the Governor on Students Affairs, applauded the initiative and described the engagement with students and young people as timely. He encouraged student leaders to remain united, constructive and committed to issues that advance the welfare and development of young people across Cross River.
The flag-off marks the commencement of a wider youth engagement programme covering Akamkpa, Akpabuyo, Bakassi, Biase, Calabar Municipal, Calabar South and Odukpani, with the organisers promising to take the initiatives and direct youth engagement to communities and campuses across the district.
