…Opts for constructive dialogue
By Kelvin Obambon
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Cross River chapter has called on youths in the state not to participate in the proposed nationwide protest billed for 1st August, 2024.
The call was made by the state chairman of the NYCN, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, during a town hall meeting at the Council Secretariat in Calabar on Monday 29 July, 2024.
Revealing the position of the youth body over the planned nationwide protest, Comrade Olayi stated that while the Council was not unmindful of the prevailing conditions in the country that trigger the call for protest, a more
constructive approach through dialogue and engagement should rather be adopted towards addressing the issues.
“I address you today as the Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Cross River State Chapter, with a deep sense of responsibility and concern. In light of the prevailing challenges in our nation, there is a planned nationwide protest against bad governance. While the frustrations and grievances that fuel such actions are understood, I appeal to all youths in Cross River State to refrain from participating in this protest.
“The recent history of protests, particularly the #EndSARS movement, provides a stark reminder of how well-intentioned actions can be hijacked by elements with malicious intent, leading to violence, destruction, and loss of lives and properties. We cannot afford a repeat of such tragic events.
“While acknowledging the severe economic difficulties and the pressures faced by our people, I believe that protest, in this instance, may not be the most effective means of advocating for change. Instead, I call for a more constructive approach through dialogue and engagement.
“I assure you that my team and I are committed to addressing your concerns. We are actively engaging with youths across the state to gather first-hand information about your challenges and aspirations. This grassroots approach ensures that we have a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand.
“We are advocating for the following measures to alleviate the hardships faced by our youths:
“Reactivation of the Scholarships Board and Implementation: The leadership of the youths thank the government for reactivating the Scholarships programme and we also urge His Excellency to ensure that the scholarships are readily available and accessible to the youths of Cross River State to promote education and skill development.
“Bursaries: Providing financial support to Cross River students and youths to ease their academic burdens and encourage higher education.
“Agricultural and Entrepreneurial Aid: Offering funding and resources to support youth involvement in agriculture and entrepreneurship, fostering self-reliance and economic growth.
“Job Opportunities: Creating employment opportunities for young people by advertising and recruiting into the State Civil Service.
“Health Insurance Scheme: Expanding the Cross River Health Insurance Scheme to cover young Cross Riverians, including artisans and unemployed youths, ensuring access to essential healthcare services.
“Infrastructural Development: We commend the current administration for their strides in Infrastructural development and we urge them to Continue and even expand in key critical infrastructural projects to cover more rural areas, thereby improving living standards and economic opportunities for all.
“Additionally, we call on the authorities at the local government level to engage with youths in their respective LGAs. Addressing the issues affecting youths at the grassroots level is crucial for fostering a peaceful and harmonious society. By working together, we can build a better Cross River State for everyone.
“Above all, peace is sacrosanct. As a council and as leaders, we must do everything within our power to sustain peace. It is through dialogue, not protest, that we can achieve meaningful progress.
“Rest assured, we will relay your concerns directly to the appropriate authorities with the urgency they deserve. Our goal is to ensure that your voices are heard and that concrete actions are taken to alleviate the hardships we all experience.
“In conclusion, I appeal to your sense of responsibility and patriotism. Let us choose dialogue over protest, and constructive engagement over confrontation. Together, we can work towards a better Cross River State and a more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.