Calabar, Nigeria – The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, officially inaugurated the rebranded Administrative Block of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Youth House.
The newly renamed H.E Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu Youth House and Entrepreneurship Centre now stands as a beacon of opportunity for young Nigerians, coinciding with the groundbreaking for a one-thousand-capacity hall at the same venue.
The ceremony, attended by dignitaries from the government, business, medical, and academic sectors, was marked by a series of inspirational speeches and commendations.
Representing the Governor, the Chief of Staff Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar conveyed the Governor’s delight over the achievements of Comr. Emmanuel Olayi, and his executive. “Our government remains unwavering in its support for the youth. The rebranding of this administrative block not only symbolises a new chapter in efficiency and organisation but also reaffirms our commitment to nurturing future leaders,” Ironbar stated.
In his opening remarks, State Chairman of the NYCN, His Youthfulness Obol Comr. Emmanuel Olayi outlined the Council’s vision to transition from traditional support mechanisms to a dynamic centre for vocational and leadership training.
“We are steering towards an era of enterprise. The Youth House will serve as a nucleus for skill acquisition and leadership development, fully aligning with our commitment to support the government’s youth-friendly agenda,” Comr. Olayi stated, noting that the rebranding honours Governor Otu’s continuous support for the youth.
Keynote speaker Dr Iyke Ukweh further emphasised the transformative power of entrepreneurship. Speaking on the necessity of cultivating a proactive mindset, he urged young people to pivot from conventional engagements to ventures that yield direct and indirect economic benefits.
“Entrepreneurship is accessible to all. It is imperative that the youth equip themselves with business skills, forge strategic partnerships, and nurture the growth of their ventures to make a lasting impact on both their lives and our communities,” Dr Ukweh advised.
The event also featured robust endorsements from government officials. The Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Barr. Ijom Ukam, praised the NYCN team for the innovative facelift of the Youth House, linking it to the broader infrastructural progress in the state.
“Young people are Cross River’s greatest asset. Our government remains dedicated to equipping them for the challenges of an evolving world,” he asserted while urging collective support for the NYCN’s initiatives.
Adding to the chorus of support, Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties, Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba, lauded Comr. Olayi as an innovative and critical leader whose efforts have significantly bolstered youth development. He affirmed the administration’s commitment to fostering synergy between government and youth initiatives, aiming to propel the state to unprecedented heights.
Dr Julius Kijuo, SSA for Youth Development, reinforced the sentiment by stressing the integral role of the youth in shaping the future. Expressing gratitude to Chief of Staff Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar for his relentless efforts, Dr Kijuo encouraged the younger generation to acquire entrepreneurial skills that would empower them to drive both personal and economic growth.
The multifaceted event featured several key segments, including the unveiling of the NYCN Think Cross River brand, award presentations honouring distinguished figures such as the Chief of Staff, the official opening of the rebranded Administrative Block, the laying of the foundation for the new hall, and generous financial donations.
Alongside high-ranking government officials, the gathering was enriched by the presence of state and local NYCN executives, student leaders, and numerous other young people from Cross River State.
