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| Comr. Olayi Emmanuel, Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State Chapter |
July 28, 2024 | Ukorebi Esien
CALABAR — The Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State Chapter, Comr. Olayi Emmanuel, has made a heartfelt appeal to the youths of Cross River State to abstain from participating in the upcoming nationwide protest against bad governance. This appeal comes amidst mounting tensions and economic difficulties faced by the Nigerian populace.
In a press statement released on July 28, 2024, Comr. Emmanuel expressed his understanding of the frustrations and grievances that have led to the call for protests. However, he urged the youths to consider the potential consequences of such actions. Drawing from the painful memories of the #EndSARS movement, which saw well-intentioned protests descend into violence and destruction, Emmanuel emphasized the importance of avoiding a repeat of such tragic events.
"While acknowledging the severe economic difficulties and the pressures faced by our people, I believe that protest, in this instance, may not be the most effective means of advocating for change," said Comr. Emmanuel. He called for a more constructive approach through dialogue and engagement, assuring the youths that his team is committed to addressing their concerns.
The Chairman outlined several initiatives being advocated for to alleviate the hardships faced by the youths of Cross River State:
Reactivation of the Scholarships Board and Implementation: A renewed effort to ensure scholarships are accessible to promote education and skill development.
Bursaries: Financial support to ease academic burdens and encourage higher education.
Agricultural and Entrepreneurial Aid: Funding and resources to support youth involvement in agriculture and entrepreneurship.
Job Opportunities: Creating employment opportunities within the State Civil Service.
Health Insurance Scheme: Expanding coverage to include young Cross Riverians, ensuring access to essential healthcare services.
Infrastructural Development: Continued efforts to improve infrastructure in rural areas, enhancing living standards and economic opportunities.
Comr. Emmanuel also called on local government authorities to engage with youths in their respective areas, emphasizing the importance of addressing grassroots issues to foster a peaceful and harmonious society.
"Above all, peace is sacrosanct," he stated. "As a council and as leaders, we must do everything within our power to sustain peace. It is through dialogue, not protest, that we can achieve meaningful progress."
The Chairman assured the youths that their concerns would be relayed to the appropriate authorities with urgency, aiming to ensure that concrete actions are taken to address their hardships. He concluded his statement by appealing to the youths' sense of responsibility and patriotism, urging them to choose dialogue over protest and constructive engagement over confrontation.
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| Commissioner for Youth, Barr Ijom-odum Ukam and other stakeholders during the Town Hall Meeting |
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