Former Akwa Ibom State Deputy Governor, Obong Nsima Ekere, has formally endorsed Governor Umo Eno’s recent decision to integrate 2,237 village youth presidents into the state’s security architecture.
Speaking with journalists, Ekere described the initiative as a courageous and strategic intervention that places community-based security at the very heart of governance.
The former deputy governor noted that he had carefully studied the proposal and the extensive engagements that took place between the Governor, the village youth presidents, and various security stakeholders across the state.
Following his assessment, Ekere stated he was fully convinced that the move represents a highly practical step in the right direction for the state’s safety.
According to Ekere, by formally integrating these youth leaders into the governance and security setup, the state government is achieving a dual purpose.
He emphasized that the policy not only empowers the youth but also successfully brings them under a structured system of responsibility and accountability.
Ekere, who also previously served as the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), highly commended Governor Eno’s bottom-up approach.
He highlighted that utilizing grassroots leadership for intelligence and security aligns perfectly with global best practices in community policing.
However, the former managing director issued a stern warning to the newly integrated youth leaders, urging them to justify the immense trust reposed in them by the Governor.
He cautioned them against abusing the opportunity and urged them to make judicious use of their new roles to contribute meaningfully to the safety and peace of society.
