In a commendable display of unity and commitment to youth empowerment, the National Youth Assembly of Nigeria (NYAN) and the Tourism Volunteers Network (TVN) Cross River State Chapter extend their sincere congratulations to all the recently appointed youths, including the Youth Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ikom Local Government Area, His Youthfulness, Comrade Kenneth Kajang Neji, on his well-deserved appointment as the Special Assistant for Youth Initiative, Monitoring & Delivery to one of the principal officer of Cross River State Government.
This congratulatory message was conveyed during an interaction focused on youth and tourism development in Cross River State, held on the occasion of the inaugural Cross River State Tourism Picnic, organized by the Tourism Volunteers Network Cross River State Chapter in Calabar on 25th August 2024, at Cultural Center. The event aimed to promote both tourism and youth development within the state, the picnic was full of like minds, who saw the need to promote tourism and discuss the way forward to grow tourism potentials in Cross River State.
“I want to sincerely appreciate the Executive Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, for carrying youths along and for your efforts in reviving tourism activities in Cross River State, which will significantly boost socio-economic activities in the state through Ecotourism. I also commend him for providing the youth of Ikom with the opportunity to actively participate in state development through the appointment of His Youthfulness, Comrade Kenneth Kajang Neji, a true youth leader, as the Special Assistant for Youth Initiative, Monitoring & Delivery, to serve under the office of the Chief of Staff” referencing a letter dated August 20th 2024, endorsed by Nsa Gill Chief Press Secretary to Cross River State Government, said Ambassador Bassey Nton Nton, Speaker of the National Youth Assembly of Nigeria (NYAN) and State Coordinator of the Tourism Volunteers Network (TVN).
“Congratulations to His Youthfulness, Comrade Kenneth Kajang Neji, we the youths of the National Youth Assembly of Nigeria Cross River State Chapter and Ikom Local Government Area branch are proud of you and wish you well. I advise all youth to take advantage of Ecotourism, which is a form of sustainable travel that focuses on visiting natural areas to conserve the environment, supporting the well-being of local communities, and educating travellers about the importance of protecting nature. It emphasizes responsible travel practices that minimize negative impacts on the environment and cultural heritage, while also providing economic benefits to local communities,” said Esikup Kennedy the Abanyom Ward Ambassador of the National Youth Assembly of Nigeria Ikom Local Government Area and also the Chief of staff to NYAN Cross River State Speaker.
“Youths are the leaders of tomorrow and should be vigilant to do the writing at the right time, while if given the chance to showcase their strength and weaknesses will go a long way to build ourselves for the future, the appointment of His Youthfulness, Comrade Kenneth Kajang Neji, on his well-deserved appointment as the Special Assistant for Youth Initiative, is a good thing and a motivation to the youth cycle,” Victor Lifu Chief protocol officers to NYAN Cross River State said.
Ambassador Nton Nton State Coordinator Tourism Volunteers Network and Speaker National Youth Assembly of Nigeria Cross River State Chapter lauded the appointment of Comrade Kajang Neji, describing it as “a square peg in a round hole.” He praised Kajang as a visionary youth leader, well-suited to take on this critical role. He further emphasized the challenges facing the youth in the 21st century, particularly in Cross River State, such as unemployment, and called for increased government and stakeholder intervention in the tourism sector and skilful digital skills.
“If the tourism sector in Cross River State is revived to its full potential, it will engage the youth and significantly reduce unemployment, if not eradicate it,” Nton Nton stated.
He urged the youth of Cross River State to seize opportunities for self-employment, particularly in tourism and digital skills acquisition, which are essential for economic sustainability. He emphasized the need for the youth to move beyond mere survival and strive for a fulfilling and comfortable life, Nton Nton stating, “The youths of Cross River State do not want to just survive anymore; we want to live and live comfortably. Cross River State has all it takes to achieve this.”
Ambassador Emilia-Cortez Eyo Deputy State Coordinator of Tourism Volunteers Network Cross River State said,
“In the rapidly evolving world of tourism, eTourism is not just an option—it’s a necessity. By embracing digital tools and strategies, we are not only enhancing the visibility of our destinations but also empowering our local communities. The more we invest in eTourism, the more we can attract tourists who contribute to the sustainable development of our economy, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are felt by all.”
Ambassador Francis Nyong Director of Programs Tourism Volunteers Network Cross River State said,
“As we gather here today to celebrate the beauty of our natural landscapes, it’s essential to remember that in the digital age, tourism doesn’t just happen on the ground—it begins online. eTourism is the bridge that connects our local wonders to the global community. By leveraging digital platforms, we can showcase the unique cultural heritage and natural splendor of Cross River State to the world, inviting tourists from every corner to experience what we have to offer.”
Ambassador Ukpie Upright Oluchie Secretary of Tourism Volunteers Network Cross River State said,
“The power of eTourism lies in its ability to transcend borders and create connections. Through the use of technology, we can bring the world to Cross River State and take Cross River to the world. From virtual tours to online bookings, eTourism enables us to provide seamless and immersive experiences for potential visitors, making it easier for them to discover and fall in love with our beautiful state.”
Ambassador Nton Nton the Cross River State Coordinator of the Tourism Volunteers Network also highlighted the role of the Tourism Volunteers Network (TVN) in supporting the government’s efforts to develop the tourism sector, particularly in Cross River State, renowned as the “home of tourism.” TVN aims to promote tourism not only within the state but also across Nigeria and Africa, contributing to the global growth of tourism.
In conclusion, Ambassador Nton Nton extended an invitation to the public to join these transformative initiatives, underscoring the importance of volunteerism in tourism and youth development as key to achieving collective goals. “Cross River State is the home of tourism, and with concerted efforts, the tourism sector can significantly boost the state’s revenue. The door is open for you to be part of this movement.”
He also took the opportunity to clarify the distinct roles of the National Youth Assembly of Nigeria (NYAN), describing it as a legislative and dynamic youth-centred organization that has been at the forefront of fostering positive engagement, innovation, entrepreneurship, and good governance among Nigerian youth for nearly two decades.
“NYAN is committed to encouraging youth participation in governance, upholding principles of equity, freedom, and justice, and advocating for youth involvement in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” he explained.
Ambr. Esikup Kennedy on red, Ambr. Nton Nton on white, Ambr. Victor Lifu on blue
Ambr. Francis Nyong, Ambr. Ukpie Upright Oluchie and Ambr. Emilia-Cortez Eyo
