By Edem Ekpo
In his determination to redirect the strength and energy of youths from destructive to productive ventures, Cross River State governor, Prince Bassey Otu, on Tuesday empowered 200 repentant agitators and 200 farmers with N2 million each.
The 400 beneficiaries had successfully completed intensive training on innovative and integrated agricultural value chains at Countryside Stewardship Scheme (CSS) farms in Nasarawa, a programme fully sponsored by the Otu-led administration.
Speaking at the empowerment ceremony held at Hogis Royale Hotel, Calabar, Governor Otu said a responsible government must integrate the aspirations of its citizens into its overall development plan, noting that economic empowerment remains a central demand of the people.
According to him, failure to harness the potential of young people leaves them vulnerable to anti-social vices that threaten peace, harmony and progress.
The governor explained that the disbursement of N800 million to farmers and former members of the Bakassi Defence Force reflects the human capital development strategy of his administration. He stressed that agriculture was deliberately chosen as the preferred sector for the initiative because of its far-reaching benefits and the urgent need to achieve food sufficiency before the end of his tenure.
“The coast is clear for every youth who is willing to shun violence and embrace the various self-employment opportunities created by government. We are transforming our young people from societal liabilities into developmental assets,” Otu stated.
He further assured that former members of the Bakassi Defence Force would not face stigmatisation, promising their full reintegration into society. “The seed capital you receive today is to test your character and commitment. Once we see what you have achieved with it, we are ready to support you further,” he added.
Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Patrick Egbede, described the training programme as a deliberate strategy to equip participants with skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the agricultural sector. He expressed optimism that the beneficiaries would contribute significantly to their families, communities and the state’s economy.
Representative of the Bakassi Defence Force, Obongette Ini Okon, popularly known as Virus, thanked the governor for the gesture, pledging that members had truly abandoned their past and would work to sustain peace in the state.
Also speaking, beneficiary Solomon Edem Essien expressed deep gratitude, describing Governor Otu as “a talk and do leader.” He assured that the funds would be used productively and not for frivolities, while also moving a motion on behalf of beneficiaries to endorse the governor for continuation in office until 2031.
It would be recalled that the Bakassi Defence Force emerged in the early 2000s following the ceding of the Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon, with many young men taking up arms in agitation over displacement, neglect and loss of livelihood.
Over the years, the group became synonymous with armed struggle and unrest, until sustained peace efforts and amnesty programmes began to pave the way for their reintegration into society.
Governor Otu’s empowerment drive is part of his administration’s broader policy of wealth creation and employment generation. The programme aligns with his “People First” agenda which seeks to channel youthful energy into agriculture, entrepreneurship and innovation, thereby addressing unemployment, reducing crime and driving sustainable economic growth in Cross River State.