GOV. ENO UNVEILS GRASSROOTS SECURITY INITIATIVE, ENGAGES 2,272 VILLAGE YOUTH PRESIDENTS

Governor Umo Eno has unveiled a new grassroots security and community engagement initiative, integrating 2,272 Village Youth Presidents across Akwa Ibom State into the state's security architecture to strengthen intelligence gathering and deepen youth participation in governance.

Speaking at a strategic engagement meeting with the youth leaders drawn from villages across the state, Governor Eno described the gathering as a critical step toward building a safer and more prosperous Akwa Ibom.

He said security remains a collective responsibility and reaffirmed his administration's commitment to protecting lives and property through community-based approaches.

"The villages remain the first line of defense in any society. People know one another in their communities, making it easier to identify unusual movements and suspicious activities. That is why we are integrating Village Youth Presidents into our security architecture," the Governor stated.

He explained that the youth leaders will serve as vital links between local communities, traditional institutions, and security agencies, facilitating the flow of intelligence and strengthening vigilance at the grassroots. He, however, warned that the initiative would not shield anyone involved in unlawful activities.

"If you think becoming a Village Youth President will shield you from accountability while engaging in criminal acts, then you are mistaken. This responsibility demands integrity, vigilance, and a genuine commitment to protecting your people," Governor Eno said.

To enhance coordination, the Governor directed all Local Government Chairmen to appoint Security Supervisors in councils where such appointments have not yet been made. These supervisors will coordinate security activities and serve as liaison officers between Village Youth Presidents, Community Watch groups, and security agencies.

Governor Eno also directed security agencies to develop comprehensive training programmes for the youth leaders and integrate them fully into the state's community security framework. In addition, he announced plans to expand the state's Quick Response Force to cover all ten federal constituencies, ensuring faster emergency response across the state.

Introducing a reward system for actionable intelligence, the Governor said:

"We have always said, 'If you see something, say something.' Today, we are taking it a step further: 'If you see something, say something and win something.' Credible information that helps security agencies prevent crime and apprehend criminals will be rewarded."

He charged the Village Youth Presidents to discharge their responsibilities with patriotism, honesty, and dedication. He urged them to work closely with Village Heads, Clan Heads, Paramount Rulers, Local Government Chairmen, and security agencies. He also encouraged them to mobilize residents for civic participation, including the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.

Governor Eno recalled that upon assuming office on May 29, 2023, his administration established the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways to strengthen the state's security architecture. He commended the nation's security agencies for their dedication and expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support of the country's security institutions.

The engagement underscored the government's commitment to leveraging grassroots structures to promote security, community ownership, youth empowerment, and sustainable development under the ARISE Agenda.

The meeting concluded with renewed commitments from the Village Youth Presidents to support government efforts in maintaining peace, safeguarding public infrastructure, and strengthening grassroots intelligence gathering across the state.

Categories: https://omg10.com/4/11104712