Ukorebi Esien | April 29, 2026
CALABAR. – The Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Edet Otu, has officially flagged off the Federal Government’s Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalisation Programme (YEIDEP), with youth stakeholders across the state expressing strong support for the initiative.
Represented by his Deputy, Peter Odey, the governor described the programme as a “threshold of opportunity” for young people, noting that YEIDEP is not just another government scheme but “a lifeline, a platform, and a promise of a better future.”
He stressed that the state government has already begun aggressive mobilisation and sensitisation across communities to ensure that young people key into the programme, adding that Cross River is fully aligned with the Federal Government’s vision to tackle youth unemployment and promote economic inclusion.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Ijom Ukam, commended the Federal Government for the initiative, describing it as a strategic response to the growing challenge of youth unemployment.
He noted that the state ministry immediately activated grassroots structures upon learning of the programme, embarking on sensitisation campaigns across wards and communities. “The response has been overwhelming. Registration is rising daily because our young people understand the value of this opportunity,” he said.
The Commissioner assured that the state government would continue to provide the needed support to ensure that beneficiaries are properly guided and that the programme delivers tangible results.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State chapter, Olayi Emmanuel, described the initiative as a turning point for young people in the state.
“This is our moment,” he declared, urging youths to take ownership of the programme. “This is more than a policy; it is an opportunity for transformation. We have gone round the state, and the level of awareness and readiness among young people is encouraging.”
Olayi expressed confidence in both the Federal and State Governments, assuring that youths in Cross River would utilise the opportunity responsibly. “We will not misuse this opportunity. We are prepared, and we are committed to making the most of it so that more opportunities can come to our people,” he added.
He further revealed that youth groups across the state are mobilising massively for participation and pledged continued collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure the success of YEIDEP.
With widespread mobilisation already underway and strong institutional backing, YEIDEP is expected to significantly expand economic opportunities, reduce unemployment, and strengthen youth productivity across Cross River State.
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