Youth leaders from across Northern Cross River have commended Governor Bassey Otu’s administration for its focus on developmental projects and youth-centered policies. The commendation came during an interactive session with Deputy Governor Peter Odey, which concluded a youth tour of the region.
The Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State Chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, praised Governor Otu for his administration’s commitment to improving the socioeconomic status of young people. He called for continued collaboration between the government and youth bodies to ensure sustained peace and development across the state. Olayi also appreciated the resilience and support of youths in the North, urging them to maintain peace and unity.
Vice Chairman for the Northern region, Comrade Wonah Patrick, highlighted specific projects that demonstrate the administration’s “people-first” agenda, including new road infrastructure, civil service employment, and social welfare programs.
Adding to the commendation, Speaker of the Cross River State Youth Parliament, Comrade Comfort Ngeh, advocated for increased gender inclusion and acknowledged the government’s efforts to empower young women and promote their participation in leadership roles.
Addressing the delegation, Deputy Governor Odey affirmed that the Otu-led administration is intentionally creating opportunities for young people. He cited ongoing initiatives such as vocational training, job creation, and platforms for direct youth engagement as part of a strategy to build a stronger, more inclusive governance structure.
“Governor Bassey Otu is intentional about empowering our youth,” Odey said. “From training to employment, the government is putting structures in place to ensure young people are not just seen, but heard and included in decision-making.”
The session concluded with a resolution from the youth leaders, who issued a stern warning against job racketeering. They stated that the council will not hesitate to expose and apprehend anyone caught illegally selling jobs.
The meeting was also attended by key government officials, including the Deputy Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi, Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Patrick Egbede, and the Head of Personal Staff to the Deputy Governor, Dr. Chris Ojikpong.
