Dr Uwemedimo Udo, the Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Akwa Ibom State Chapter and Chairman of Uyo Local Government Area, has commended His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD for his sustained investment in youth development and grassroots security.
Dr Udo made the remarks at the Strategic Town Square Engagement with Village Youth Presidents on Security and Community Protection, held on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at the Uyo Township Stadium. The event attracted thousands of youth leaders from the state’s 2,272 gazetted villages.
In his speech, he described the gathering as Governor Eno’s personal initiative to foster continuous engagement with grassroots youths. He praised the governor’s “youth-friendly” leadership and spotlighted key programmes under the ARISE Agenda, including empowerment initiatives, skills acquisition centres (such as DASAC), Youth Friendly Centres, and other youth-focused policies.
The ALGON boss underscored the critical role of Village Youth Presidents as grassroots representatives who maintain peace, law and order, and support traditional rulers in their communities.
Dr Udo, who expressed delight that the governor prioritised direct engagement with these youths despite a busy schedule, assured the governor of continued youth support through 2027 and beyond.
The engagement aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s plan to integrate Village Youth Presidents into the state’s security architecture. The youths are expected to receive training from security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, protect public assets, and enhance community-driven peacebuilding through the Ibom Community Watch.
