In a significant move to galvanise support, the Cross River State Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Oden Ewa, has called on the youth population to align with the All Progressives Congress (APC). He announced a substantial N600 million grant aimed at empowering young people across the state's central senatorial district.
Tour Promotes Progressive Ideals
The commissioner made this declaration during a just-concluded two-day tour under the Oden Ewa Central Youths Connect initiative. This platform was designed to foster intellectual engagement and meaningful dialogue with young Nigerians. The tour, which wrapped up recently, spanned communities in Boki, Etung, Ikom, Abi, Obubra, and Yakurr local government areas.
During a series of interactive sessions with youths, APC members, and community leaders, Ewa passionately advocated for progressive governance. He highlighted the roles of President Bola Tinubu and Cross River State Governor Bassey Edet Otu in driving youth-focused policies. According to the commissioner, both leaders have made impactful investments in programmes that secure a sustainable future for young Nigerians at national and state levels.
Contrasting Leadership Styles
Ewa took time to educate participants on the core principles of what he termed progressive leadership. He drew a clear distinction between such leaders and others he described as static and retrogressive. He criticised 'push-and-start' leaders, suggesting they lack the vision, zeal, and capacity to create lasting value or provide purposeful direction.
"Stomach infrastructure cannot bring about genuine human or societal development," Ewa stated emphatically. He urged the youth not to settle for temporary handouts but to instead partner with leaders committed to long-term solutions. He positioned the APC as the party that prioritises critical investments in both physical infrastructure and human capital development.
Substantial Financial Commitment Announced
Beyond the rhetoric, the tour was marked by tangible support. The commissioner donated food items, including bags of rice, and provided financial aid to the six local councils visited. The major announcement, however, was the unveiling of a N100 million youth grant for each of the six local council areas.
This commitment totals a massive N600 million dedicated specifically to youth empowerment and development within the central senatorial district. The grant is expected to provide significant opportunities for young entrepreneurs and innovators in Cross River State.
The commissioner's message was clear: the future belongs to progressive ideas and leaders who invest in the next generation. This substantial financial pledge underscores a strategic effort to secure youth allegiance through empowerment, not just promises.
