The Executive Director of the Clement Isong Foundation (CIF), Mr. Elkanah Oluyori, has urged activists and youth leaders in Akwa Ibom State to ensure their advocacy efforts are rooted in integrity, empathy, and accountability.
He emphasized that these values would distinguish their work and increase the chances of their advocacy achieving meaningful impact.
Oluyori gave the charge on Friday during a two-day Strategic Partnership Agreement II (SPA II) Youth Network Convergence and Learning Exchange held at the Ibeno Youth Hub, Ibeno Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. The event was organized in partnership with ActionAid Nigeria.
“I encourage you to live purpose-driven lives and ground your advocacy in integrity, empathy, and accountability,” he said, noting that the programme was designed to strengthen youth-led governance, climate advocacy, and movement sustainability beyond SPA II.
Also speaking, the representative of ActionAid Nigeria, Ms. Blessing Ifemenam, reiterated the organization’s 20-year commitment to youth empowerment in Akwa Ibom State. She emphasized the need for consistency, coordination, and strategic vision within youth movements.
She highlighted the impact of SPA II in the state since its inception in 2022, noting the expansion of beneficiaries from 581 to over 4,000 in 2025. According to her, the initiative has strengthened youth participation in governance and decision-making spaces.
Other achievements, she said, include improved recognition of youth networks by community and government institutions, as well as the building of a strong foundation for youth-led social movements across local government areas.
Meanwhile, participants at the event pledged renewed commitment to sustaining advocacy efforts, promoting inclusive governance, and driving climate-resilient development across the state.
