The Cross River State Government empowered 400 citizens, including farmers and former members of the defunct Bakassi Defence Force, with grants totaling ₦800 million.
The initiative aims to support the beneficiaries’ reintegration and entrepreneurial growth through agriculture and other ventures.
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Each participant received N2 million as seed capital after completing intensive training on Innovative and Integrated Agricultural Value Chain at CSS Farms in Nasarawa State.
On Wednesday, Governor Bassey Otu, addressing the beneficiaries in Calabar, emphasized the program’s focus on redirecting youth energy from destructive activities to productive ventures.
He said, “Today’s empowerment program is primarily targeted at redirecting the strength and energy of our youths from destructive to productive ventures.
“The youth as a critical demographic set is the pulse of the society, as they are as versatile as they are volatile.”
Otu further explained that the gesture is a strategic investment in human capital rather than a display of state resources, adding that agriculture was chosen for its cascading benefits and role in food security.
Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Patrick Egbede, described the event as a milestone for state economic development.
He added, “The skills and knowledge acquired will enable them to make meaningful impact in their communities and contribute to state economic growth,” on the same day.
He also noted that 100 youths have been trained in ICT, especially web development and programming, demonstrating a commitment to empowerment beyond agriculture.
