Akwa Ibom launches State -of youth tech hub for digital innovation

Tony Okoh, Uyo

The 2025 ARISE Youth Skills Week ended yesterday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on a high note with the official launch of the ARISE Youth-Friendly Tech Hub.

The landmark facility, unveiled by the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, at the Ibom E-Library, will serve as a pilot for a network of innovation centres planned across the state’s 31 local government areas.

Tagged “The Green House” by the Minister, the tech hub is fully equipped with digital tools and high-speed internet, offering a creative space for tech-driven learning, enterprise development, and digital empowerment.

“Governor Umo Eno is not just a visionary; he’s an executioner of dreams. This initiative places Akwa Ibom ahead of the curve in youth-focused innovation,” Olawande declared, commending the state for taking the lead.

The Minister also hinted at a forthcoming policy shift from the One Youth – Two Skills campaign to a new model tagged One Local Government, One Product, aimed at diversifying local economies through skilled enterprise.

He emphasized the urgency of investing in digital literacy nationwide.

“Nigeria cannot afford to leave its youth behind in the global digital race. This hub is a model of what our future should look like,” he said.

Governor Umo Eno, who was represented at the launch by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr. Ekerette Ekanem, affirmed the administration’s commitment to scaling the hub model across all LGAs in the state.

“We are not just building centres; we are building the next generation of innovators. This hub is a spark for grassroots creativity and digital inclusion,” Ekanem said.

Dr. Ekanem earlier paid glowing tribute to Governor Umo Eno for his unwavering commitment to the youth and for his visionary decision to create a stand-alone Ministry of Youth Development to champion transformative policies and investments in youth empowerment.

“This celebration is not just a ceremonial event but a clear declaration of the administration’s resolve to prepare our young people for a digital and innovation-driven future,” Dr. Ekanem said.

He noted that youth empowerment through AI and digital skills aligns with the sub-theme of the celebration: Harnessing Youth Skills for Economic Growth and Innovation in Line with the ARISE Agenda.

The Commissioner also unveiled the State Government’s Youth Development Template, in line with the Governor’s ARISE Agenda.

The opening day had featured a high-level panel discussion on the role of youth skills in driving economic transformation, and a Pitching Contest that saw a display of remarkable talents from young innovators.

A standout moment was the emergence of an SS1 student of a public school, Christian Secondary Commercial School, Uyo, as the winner of the pitch contest with a groundbreaking Agric-guard innovation.

The young innovator scored 83%, clinching the first prize and earning ₦1,000,000,

The closing ceremony also featured goodwill messages from prominent stakeholders, including Hon. Martins Esin, Chairman, House of Reps Committee on Youth Development; Mr. John Onifade, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development; Hon. Uwemedimo Asuquo, Chairman, Akwa Ibom State House Committee on Youth, Sports and Security; Prof. Enoidem Usoro, Rector, Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre; and Etinyene OfongEkpe, leader of the 31 LGA Youth Development Supervisors.

All speakers applauded the initiative, describing it as a catalyst for youth empowerment and pledging full support for its statewide rollout.

The event also recognized outstanding young tech innovators, who pitched creative solutions to social and economic challenges, with prizes awarded to top performers.