The Jacob Idungafa Charity Foundation has officially launched its flagship youth empowerment initiative, “Activate the Youth”, in Akwa Ibom State, with a focus on mindset transformation, skills acquisition and long-term economic independence for young people across the region.
According to the founder, Mr Jacob Idungafa, the event, which is billed to feature inspirational speakers and free-for-all attendees, will take place at Ibom Hall by 10:30 am on Friday, May 30, 2025.
Idungafa made this announcement during a media parley held in Uyo, where he emphasised that the programme is designed to help youths discover sustainable paths by sharing his expertise and experience.
“Activate the Youth” came into full force in 2024 after years of personal engagements with youths. I believe I have something to offer through motivation, mentorship, and capacity building because I have walked that journey myself,” Mr Idungafa stated.
He noted that the programme began in Port Harcourt, where over 2,000 young people have already benefitted, maintaining that it is now being extended to Akwa Ibom with the aim of transforming the narrative surrounding youth development, steering them away from over-dependence on politics into entrepreneurship, innovation and value-based living.
“We want to help young people discover their potential and understand that there is more to life than political appointments.
“Through business education, mentorship, and real-life experience sharing, we are building a generation that can think independently and create value.
“We don’t just give out money; we teach how to earn, manage, and multiply it. Wisdom is essential. Many young people want to do business but do not know where to start. Our vision is to show them they can begin with what they have, however little,” he added.
Speaking further, Idungafa revealed that the foundation has completed a brand new classroom block in his community to address deteriorating public education infrastructure.
The school which is situated at Ukanafun Local Government Area is equipped with modern facilities, including a library and a games centre.
“Last year, when I visited the old school structure, it was in a terrible state.
“We decided to completely renovate it. Today, we are proud to have delivered a brand new block with added learning facilities,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the foundation will commission the two newly reconstructed classroom blocks at Government Primary School, Ikot Edon Afaha Obo, in the Ukanafun Local Government Area on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
Beyond education, Idungafa said the foundation has carried out road rehabilitation, solar-powered street light installations, free medical outreaches and distribution of food, and clothing to women and the elderly in underserved communities.
Addressing questions about political ambitions, Idungafa made it clear that the foundation’s activities are driven solely by humanitarian goals, not political aspirations.
“I have no political ambitions. I love my people, and this is my way of giving back. The government has its role; I am only playing mine.
“As the Bible says, the government shall be upon our shoulders. If God has blessed me, why not use it for the benefit of others?” he affirmed.
When asked about the long-term vision of the foundation, the progenitor said the goal is to create a global movement that helps youths from all walks of life to discover their potential and take ownership of their future.
“Where there is no vision, the people perish. Our vision is to build a generation of youths with dreams, direction, and discipline. We are determined to activate purpose, not just potential,” he noted.
