The Cross River State Commissioner for Youth Development, Ijom Ukam, has pledged the state government’s full support for the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV) following a courtesy visit by the initiative’s National Coordinator, Orvenonne Ikwen.
The visit, part of a two-day working tour of the state, provided a platform for discussions on tackling rising social vices among youths, including cultism, drug abuse, bullying, and prostitution.
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Speaking during the engagement, Ukam described the visit as timely, noting that it comes at a period he characterized as both volatile and transitional. He emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between government and relevant stakeholders to address challenges affecting young people.
He reaffirmed that ensuring the safety of citizens remains a core responsibility of government, while commending the Nigeria Police Force for adopting a preventive, non-kinetic strategy through POCACOV. According to him, the initiative focuses on mentorship, youth engagement, and value reorientation rather than enforcement alone.
Ukam noted that POCACOV plays a crucial role in helping young people see the police as partners in their development, fostering trust and promoting positive societal values.
He further assured that the initiative would be fully integrated into youth development strategies in the state, adding that the Ministry of Youth Development would collaborate closely with POCACOV to curb social vices.
The commissioner also disclosed plans to include POCACOV in the State Committee on Drug and Anti-Vices, a strategic body chaired by the wife of the state governor. He said the move would strengthen coordination and enhance efforts to combat drug abuse and related issues among youths.
The visit aligns with the policing vision of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, which emphasizes community partnership, public trust, and preventive policing.
