From Oil To Innovation: Akwa Ibom Begins Statewide Digital Skills Revolution In Oron
Akwa Ibom Deepens Human Capital Development Through Digital Skills Investment
State Government Unveils Technology Programme to Prepare Youths for Global Economy
AKWA Ibom State has taken another step towards expanding digital inclusion and youth employment with the launch of the ARISE Tech Talent Accelerator Programme, a statewide initiative designed to prepare thousands of young people for careers in the technology sector.
The programme was officially inaugurated at the Oron Youth Development Centre by Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi on behalf of Governor Umo Eno.
The initiative forms part of the administration’s broader economic diversification strategy, which seeks to position technology, innovation and entrepreneurship as new drivers of sustainable development beyond traditional sectors.
Digital Skills Seen as Future Employment Pathway
Addressing participants, the Deputy Governor said the changing global economy increasingly rewards knowledge-based skills rather than geographical location.
She noted that with the appropriate digital training, young people can secure remote employment, establish technology businesses and participate competitively in international markets while residing within their local communities.
According to her, the Youth Development Centres established across the state are designed to bridge the digital skills gap by providing practical training, innovation support and entrepreneurial development.
She further disclosed that graduates of the programme will receive laptops and other digital tools to facilitate their transition into productive technology careers.
Oron Emerges as Model for Statewide Rollout
Government officials described Oron as the pioneer community for the initiative after becoming the first local government area to provide land, complete construction of its Youth Development Centre and commence training.
Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr. Ekerete Ekanem, said the launch fulfilled a commitment made by Governor Eno during the commissioning of the facility only weeks earlier.
He emphasised that the administration intends to establish similar centres across all 31 local government areas, ensuring that rural communities enjoy equal access to digital opportunities.
According to him, each centre will train approximately 1,000 youths annually, creating a pipeline of skilled professionals capable of meeting the growing demand for technology talent.
Human Capital Development Takes Centre Stage
Officials estimate that the combined impact of the Youth Development Centres and other government-sponsored vocational programmes could empower more than 200,000 young people within five years.
The Rector of the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre, Prof. Enoidem Udosoro, described the initiative as a practical investment in self-reliance, innovation and entrepreneurship.
He noted that beyond improving employability, the programme is expected to encourage business creation, stimulate local economies and reduce youth unemployment.
Community Leaders Back Government Initiative
Oron Local Government Chairman, Hon. Chief Asukwo Enweme, praised the state government for selecting the council as the pioneer beneficiary of the programme.
He assured that the facility would be safeguarded while urging participants to embrace the opportunities presented by the initiative and channel their energies towards productive pursuits instead of criminality, cultism or substance abuse.
The ceremony attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, youth organisations and community representatives, reflecting broad support for the state’s digital transformation agenda.
Building a Technology-Driven Future
As governments across the world increasingly prioritise digital economies, Akwa Ibom’s ARISE Tech Talent Accelerator Programme represents an effort to prepare its youthful population for emerging opportunities in software development, digital services, innovation and entrepreneurship.
With the successful commencement of training in Oron, the state has begun laying the foundation for a technology-enabled workforce expected to contribute to long-term economic competitiveness, inclusive growth and sustainable development.
