The National Youth Council of Nigeria, Biase Chapter, under the leadership of its Coordinator, Comr. Ibe God’sday Ukam, successfully convened a Biase Youth Stakeholders Meeting to chart a new course for the development of Biase Local Government.
In his address, Comr. God’sday Ukam welcomed participants and appreciated everyone who made time to attend. He stressed that the gathering was not a forum for fund distribution but a strategic dialogue on the way forward for Biase.
He drew attention to the absence of key amenities such as electricity, job opportunities, roads, banks, and quality schools that should ordinarily be accessible in every local government but remain a challenge for Biase Local Government. He urged the youths to embrace unity, stressing that only through collective effort can Biase achieve progress and prosperity.
Several stakeholders spoke passionately on issues affecting the youth and the community at large:
- Hon. Prince Ojoi Oti (Councilor representing Umon South) addressed the challenge of social media conflict, urging youths to act responsibly and take ownership of their actions.
- Rex Obo emphasized the importance of youth awareness, calling on young people to recognize their role as change agents in shaping the destiny of Biase.
- Hon. Egwu Egeh spoke on youth leadership, underscoring the need for love, forgiveness, accountability, and proper use of social media. He encouraged mentorship, self-development, and effective representation in governance.
The Commissioner for Youth Development and Skill Acquisition, Cross River State, Hon. Barr. Ijom Ukam, commended the initiative and applauded the organizers. He emphasized self-development, nurturing relationships, and building meaningful networks as essential tools for success.
According to him, “Though the foundation may have been faulty in the past, the present offers opportunities to reset and rebuild. As young people, we must celebrate ourselves and maximize every opportunity for growth.”
The Chairman of Biase Local Government, ably represented by Francis Benjamin, also delivered a goodwill message. He applauded the effort of the Youth Council and assured the full support of the local government in implementing resolutions from the meeting.
The meeting attracted a wide array of stakeholders who added their voices to the call for youth empowerment and community development. Among them were:
- Comr. Chris Edadi – State Financial Secretary, People’s Democratic Party, Cross River State
- Hon. Ekwai Etekpi – Community Relations Officer, Biakpan
- Comr. Chris Sam
- Hon. Joe Bassey – Member, Youth Parliament
- Hon. Felix Etekpi – Councilor, Biakpan
- Hon. Emmanuel – Councilor, Erei North
- Comr. Okanga Obu – Two-time State Representative
- Other distinguished leaders and community influencers.
- Cmr Solomon James Chairman Elders Council NYCN Biase chapter
Closing Remarks by the Biase Youth Stakeholders Meeting marked a milestone in youth engagement within the local government. With commitments from leaders, community representatives, and stakeholders, the gathering reinforced the collective vision of building a more united, progressive, and prosperous Biase.
