The Cross River State government is set to empower at least 20,000 youths through empowerment schemes being developed under the state Youth Empowerment Scheme (YES).
The Chairman of the scheme, Dr Kalita Aruku, disclosed this in an interview with newsmen in Calabar on Tuesday, noting that the initiative is structured to align youth empowerment with strengths and practical needs across the state.
According to Aruku, the scheme is built around seven thematic areas where beneficiaries will be productively engaged and supported. He listed the areas as the creative industry, agriculture, sports, transport, skills acquisition, small-scale businesses, and education.
Explaining the agricultural component, Aruku said young people will be trained and empowered with agricultural products and linked with off-takers to ensure sustainability. He said poultry, piggery, fishery, and crop cultivation will be the major focus areas under agriculture.
He stated that beneficiaries in the fishery segment will receive fingerlings and funds to begin operations after completing training, while those in poultry will also be provided with birds and financial support.
“Perhaps I need to add here that the beneficiaries of the fishery part will also be provided with artificial ponds and feeds,” he said.
Aruku further explained that crop cultivation will focus mainly on cassava and maize due to their high demand. He said improved, high-yield cassava stems will be distributed to beneficiaries, adding that the same approach will apply to maize production.
“Same applies to maize, in addition to engaging a flour mill, which will be the offtaker in this regard,” he noted.
On the creative industry, Aruku said youths will be trained in cinematography, directing, producing, scriptwriting, and acting. He explained that the goal is not only to empower young people but also to position Calabar as a destination for film production.
“We can’t be a hub for tourism without adding this aspect of the creative industry to it. Music is also part of this,” he said.
Speaking on small-scale businesses, Aruku said beneficiaries will be equipped with tools and equipment to help them expand operations.
On funding challenges, the chairman acknowledged constraints but expressed confidence in the commitment of Governor Bassey Otu to the programme.
“Of course, it may interest you to know that youth remain one of the central focuses of the governor’s people-first mantra,” he stated.
