By Shadrach Okon
Governor Umo Eno has revealed his plans to tackle the menace of unemployment among young people in Akwa Ibom State.
Eno who spoke while signing an Executive Order establishing the Akwa Ibom State Labour and Industrial Committee and inaugurated an eleven-member team to lead the committee said the committee will work with Oil companies operating in the state to ensure that Akwa Ibom youths are gainfully employed in companies operating within the state.
The committee will also be responsible for ascertaining the number of oil and gas companies, as well as servicing companies, operating within and beyond the state’s territorial boundaries for the purpose of tracking revenue accruals and youth employment.
Additionally, it will ensure that all companies comply with the local content provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 and determine the number of Akwa Ibom indigenes employed by them.
“We need to ensure job creation for our young people, and we are determined to work with all oil companies to access accurate employment data. We are not taking over their employment processes, but we are insisting on transparency regarding their records,” Governor Eno stated.
“No longer will our youths graduate and roam around with certificates while companies operating here import workers into our state. I am confident that the forthcoming bill will effectively address this issue. All Local Government Labour Committees are directed to work closely with your committee to achieve synergy and optimal efficiency.” He added.
Speaking during a brief ceremony at the Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Uyo, marking the signing of Executive Order 2, followed by the inauguration of the State Labour and Industrial Committee and the State Bureau of Statistics, the Governor said the Order was necessary to give legitimacy and impetus to the committee while working towards enacting a law to fully empower it at the state level.
The Labour and Industrial Committee has Rt. Hon. Nse Essien as Chairman, with Rt. Hon. Udo Kierian Akpan, Barr. Mmakim Antai, Rt. Hon. Nse Ntuen, Hon. Ekerette Ekpenyong, Mr. Sunday Etor Isokobo, Mr. Ubong Udo Uquang, Mr. Abraham Odion, and Mr. Uwemedimo Udoh as members.
The Commissioner for Labour and Manpower Planning is also a member, while the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Development will serve as Secretary of the committee.
