The Executive Chairman of Nsit Atai Local Government Area, Hon. Prince Anthony Nyong, pledged his administration’s support for the Akwa Ibom Creative Project, assuring the facilitators of the logistical and security support needed to successfully conduct the three-month training programme for young people in the creative industry.
Prince Nyong gave the assurance on Monday, October 12, 2026, when he received renowned Nollywood actress, Ini Edo, and members of her team in his office in connection with the commencement of the training programme at the Youth Development Center in Nsit Atai.
The programme is part of the Akwa Ibom State Government’s creative economy initiative under the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno, PhD, and is designed to equip young people with practical skills and professional knowledge to pursue careers in the creative industry.
Speaking during the visit, Ini Edo explained that she and her team were in Nsit Atai to train young people with talents and interests in various aspects of the creative industry, helping them develop their abilities into viable professional careers.
The actress, who has spent over 20 years in the entertainment industry, disclosed that the training would cover acting, directing, cinematography, graphics, animation, makeup and costume design.
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She added that experienced professionals and experts had been engaged to facilitate the different aspects of the programme, ensuring that participants benefit from practical instruction and industry knowledge.
Ini Edo explained that Governor Umo Eno had entrusted her with the responsibility of bringing her experience and expertise back home to contribute to the development of aspiring creatives in Akwa Ibom State.
She expressed appreciation to Prince Nyong for the warm reception accorded to her team and commended the Chairman for his concern for his people, particularly his efforts to ensure that young people in Nsit Atai participate fully in the programme and benefit from the opportunities it provides.
In his response, Prince Nyong thanked Ini Edo for agreeing to share her knowledge and experience with aspiring creatives, describing her contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry as significant.
He described the actress as a screen goddess and expressed confidence that the trainees would gain valuable knowledge from her experience and that of the other professionals engaged in the programme.
The Chairman noted that the training would help participants develop their talents, build confidence and acquire practical skills that could open up career and entrepreneurial opportunities in the creative industry.
Prince Nyong also expressed profound appreciation to His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno, PhD, for establishing the Youth Development Center in Nsit Atai and extending the creative economy initiative to the area.
He said the establishment of the center and the introduction of the training programme reflected the Governor’s commitment to youth development, skills acquisition, and the creation of opportunities for young people across the state.
The Chairman assured Ini Edo and her team of his administration’s readiness to provide the necessary support, including logistics and security, to ensure a conducive environment for the successful conduct of the training.
Addressing the 100 trainees, Prince Nyong urged them to take the three-month programme seriously and make the most of the opportunity to acquire valuable skills from the experienced professionals handling the training. He charged them to remain committed, attentive and dedicated throughout the programme, stressing that the time and resources invested in their development must not be wasted. He encouraged them to approach the training with the determination to learn, improve their talents and prepare themselves for opportunities in the creative industry.
The Youth Development Center in Nsit Atai, built by the Akwa Ibom State Government, is one of the designated pilot locations for the creative economy initiative. It is expected to serve as a hub for training, mentorship and the development of young people seeking to establish careers in the creative industry.
Ini Edo was accompanied by Mr Moses Eskor, Director-General of the Akwa Ibom Creative Project; Mr. Emmanuel Owuala, Special Assistant to the Governor on Creative Talent Development; Dr. Chuks Umana Emmanuel, a lecturer in the Theatre Arts Department, University of Uyo; and other members of the delegation.
Other dignitaries who joined the Chairman to receive the delegation included the Dean of Supervisors, Hon. Emmanuel Okono; Supervisor for Health, Hon. Mandu Dan; Supervisor for Agriculture, Hon. Unwana Orok; Supervisor for Religious Affairs, Hon. Mercy Umoh; Supervisor for Women Affairs, Hon. Noble Paul; Councillor representing Eastern Nsit Ward 10, Hon. Edidiong Ibia; the Chief of Staff to the Chairman, Engr. Emmanuel Edet; among others.
