Akwa Ibom State has introduced mandatory drug testing and security screening for all existing and aspiring village youth presidents as part of efforts to combat drug abuse, cultism, and other security challenges across the state.
Key highlights
Mandatory screening: All village youth presidents must undergo drug tests and security background checks.
Statewide verification: The exercise covers gazetted villages across all 31 local government areas.
Leadership eligibility: Candidates with criminal records, pending court cases, or links to criminal activities will be disqualified and may face sanctions.
Community involvement: The verification process includes consultations with village heads, youth leaders, and community members to confirm the credibility and acceptance of nominees.
Security partnership: Verified youth leaders will work alongside government and security agencies to help combat cultism, drug abuse, and other security threats in rural communities.
Commissioner for Youth Development, Ekerette Ekanem, disclosed the new policy, stating that the initiative is tied to the government’s plan to formally integrate youth leaders into grassroots administrative structures across the 31 local government areas.
According to Ekanem, the ongoing verification exercise in gazetted villages is aimed at assessing the credibility, integrity, and suitability of youth leaders before they are recognized by the state government.
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The commissioner explained that the exercise involves direct engagement with communities, village heads, and youth leaders to ensure that those nominated for leadership positions enjoy the support and confidence of their communities.
He noted that the government intends to work closely with verified youth leaders and security agencies to address rising cases of cultism, drug abuse, and other security infractions in rural communities.
Ekanem emphasized that individuals with criminal records or pending court cases would not be eligible to serve as village youth presidents, describing the policy as a critical step toward strengthening grassroots governance and promoting peace and security across Akwa Ibom State.
