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Ukorebi Esien | September 10, 2025
CALABAR —The Odukpani Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has taken its youth development drive to rural communities, confronting pressing social vices while empowering young women with life-changing skills.
As part of activities marking the Chapter's 2025 Youth Week, the council, led by its Chairman, Comrade Akiba, embarked on a four-hour journey to Atan Onoyom, a remote community in Eniong Abatim, where they held a town hall meeting that brought together youths from Ito, Obio Usiere, Asang Eniong, Isong Inyang Eniong, and Iboho Ito.
Addressing the gathering, Comrade Roland Akiba said the outreach was designed to extend NYCN's impact beyond urban centers by engaging grassroots youths on issues affecting their development. According to him, drug abuse, cultism, and other destructive practices continue to limit the potential of young people, and urgent intervention is necessary.
Resource persons delivered lectures and interactive sessions on the dangers of substance abuse, cult-related violence, and conflict resolution. In addition, the program featured a special empowerment session for young women, who were trained on personal hygiene and the production of reusable sanitary pads; an initiative aimed at tackling period poverty in the community.
The council distributed over 1,000 sanitary pads and further donated ₦100,000 to support ongoing youth-led initiatives within Atan Onoyom.
Community leaders, represented by Chief Effiong Ekot Eyibio on behalf of the traditional ruler, commended the NYCN for its historic visit, describing it as a timely intervention that would inspire positive change among local youths.
The Youth Week continues with a novelty football match between the NYCN and faith-based organizations, as well as the investiture of patrons and ambassadors of the council. This year's theme is "Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond."
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