Gov Eno hails ICT Hub as 135 Youths graduate in Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has lauded the founder of the ARISE ICT Hub, Ambassador Sunday Usikhifo, for driving practical outcomes in digital skills development and youth empowerment in line with the state’s ARISE Agenda.

The commendation was conveyed by the Commissioner for Science and Digital Economy, Dr. Frank Ekpenyong, at the maiden graduation ceremony of the ARISE ICT Hub in Uyo, where 135 trainees completed intensive ICT programmes.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Ekpenyong described the initiative as a clear demonstration of the Eno administration’s commitment to human capital development and job creation through the digital economy. He urged the graduates to maximise their newly acquired skills by creating solutions, building enterprises and contributing meaningfully to the state’s economic growth.

Drawing from biblical lessons, the commissioner cautioned the graduands against wasting their talents, assuring them of continued government support. He announced that the Hub’s head instructor would be absorbed into the Ministry’s advanced training framework to strengthen capacity and enhance future learning outcomes.

The Commissioner for Youth Development, Ekerette Ekanem, also congratulated the graduates, praising their resilience and discipline throughout the training period. He disclosed plans to integrate them into the ARISE Youth-Friendly Centres to further sharpen their competencies and position them as ambassadors of the state’s development agenda.

Earlier, the founder and Director of Studies of the ARISE ICT Hub, Ambassador Usikhifo—who also serves as Personal Assistant to the Governor on Volunteer Services—charged the graduates to remain innovative, ethical and committed to lifelong learning. He said their success would directly contribute to the effective delivery of development programmes under the Umo Eno administration.

In a show of social responsibility, Usikhifo presented an electric sewing machine and a cash donation of ₦200,000 to a physically challenged tailor to support his livelihood.

Delivering goodwill messages on behalf of the Village Head of Uyo, Obong Rev. Aniedi Okon, Obong Udofia commended Governor Eno for prioritising youth empowerment and described the ICT Hub as a strategic intervention that would reduce unemployment, curb crime and enhance community development.

The ceremony climaxed with the presentation of start-up support packages, including laptops and other essential tools, to enable the graduates to begin their professional journeys and contribute to Akwa Ibom’s growing digital economy.

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