30,000 Akwa Ibom Youths Set to Benefit from State Government Job Creation Initiative

The Akwa Ibom State Government has unveiled a large-scale employment initiative aimed at empowering 30,000 young people with job opportunities across various sectors, in a bold step to address youth unemployment and boost economic productivity in the state.

Governor Umo Eno, who made the announcement during a press briefing in Uyo, said the program is part of his administration’s broader commitment to “people-centered governance,” with a focus on job creation, skills development, and entrepreneurial support. He stated that the initiative is designed not only to reduce unemployment but to also stimulate self-sufficiency among the youth.

“We are targeting 30,000 youths in the first phase of this program, which will span agriculture, ICT, the creative industry, and public works,” Governor Eno said. “Our goal is to turn our young people into job creators, not just job seekers.”

The program, according to state officials, will include vocational training, startup grants, internships, and placement in both public and private sector roles. It will also leverage partnerships with local businesses, technology hubs, and federal agencies.

The Special Adviser on Youth Matters, Mr. Iniobong Umoren, explained that the initiative is being anchored through the Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurial Development Center (ILED), which will serve as the training and coordination hub. Interested youths have been encouraged to register via the state’s digital portal, which has already received thousands of applications within days of launch.

“We are prioritizing transparency and fairness in the selection process,” Umoren added. “Applicants will undergo screening to ensure that those selected are genuinely committed to personal and economic growth.”

Community leaders and stakeholders across the state have welcomed the move, describing it as a timely intervention given the rising unemployment figures and the need for sustainable youth engagement. Local government councils have also pledged their support in identifying and mobilizing qualified beneficiaries at the grassroots level.

If successfully implemented, the initiative is expected to significantly reduce youth restiveness, enhance productivity, and contribute to the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) by fostering a more entrepreneurial economy.

The Akwa Ibom Government says this is just the beginning, with plans already underway to scale the initiative to reach 100,000 youths by 2027.