Ukorebi Esien | February 10, 2026
CALABAR. – In a strategic move to translate governance into tangible opportunities for citizens, the Cross River State Government has unveiled the Vocational Skills Empowerment Programme (VOSEP), a comprehensive initiative aimed at equipping youths and women with market-ready skills for sustainable livelihoods.
The programme, which aligns with the People First vision of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, is designed to strengthen human capital development, promote inclusive growth, and stimulate economic productivity across the state.
VOSEP is being implemented through the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Content, Ambassador Awatt Caleb, who described the initiative as a deliberate investment in the productive capacity of Cross Riverians. According to him, the programme prioritises hands-on, competency-based training that responds directly to current labour market needs.
Beneficiaries, drawn from the state's 18 Local Government Areas, will undergo an intensive six-month training programme structured to build technical competence, entrepreneurial discipline, and financial responsibility. The initiative targets both employability and enterprise development, positioning participants to either secure jobs or establish viable businesses.
The skills offered under VOSEP cut across key economic sectors and include ICT, graphics design and digital printing, corporate branding, cinematography, electrical installation, tailoring and fashion design, driving and logistics, plumbing, hairdressing and styling, catering services, leather works and shoemaking, dry cleaning and laundry services, as well as welding and fabrication. The wide scope of the programme is intended to ensure inclusivity while aligning skills acquisition with market demand.
Beyond vocational training, VOSEP seeks to instil a mindset shift among participants, encouraging youths and women to transition from job seekers to value creators capable of generating employment and stimulating economic activities within their communities.
The programme is also expected to build a pool of skilled manpower to support Cross River State's transition into a modern, technology-driven and industrially competitive economy. By empowering beneficiaries to earn sustainable incomes and contribute meaningfully to society, the initiative reinforces the administration's commitment to self-reliance and economic resilience.
Ukorebi Esien
Editor-in-Chief,
The Daily News Ng
Lead Consultant
Achievers Center for Community Development Initiative
+2348161527978
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