Uriesi Aarebamen Alex, the Senior Special Assistant on Special Duty to the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo, was in attendance at the Swedish Embassy in Abuja to commemorate Sweden’s National Day. While celebrating the historic occasion with diplomats and dignitaries from around the world, Mr. Uriesi took the opportunity to officially introduce Project RISE – Resisting Initiation, Securing Education – a bold initiative aimed at tackling the menace of cultism in Edo State.
In what became more than a ceremonial visit, Mr. Uriesi leveraged the platform to spotlight the critical work being done in Edo State under the leadership of Governor Okpebholo. He held productive discussions with Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria, Her Excellency Annika Hahn-Englund, and other high-ranking officials about the growing need for international support and collaboration to combat cult-related violence, which has plagued young people in the state.
“While Sweden was celebrating its independence and rich national heritage, I felt it was also a meaningful opportunity to introduce Project RISE — a campaign designed to safeguard the youth of Edo State by resisting cultism and promoting access to safe, quality education,” Uriesi said.
Throughout the event, Uriesi positioned Edo State on the global diplomatic stage, engaging with various international stakeholders including the ambassadors of Japan, Mexico, and senior officials from the United Nations here in Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of transnational partnerships in the fight against youth radicalization and educational insecurity.
Representing the spirit and aspirations of Edo State, Mr. Uriesi extended warm greetings and goodwill on behalf of His Excellency, to the people of Sweden, acknowledging the strong ties between Nigeria and Sweden.
“Though the Governor was invited but couldn’t be present, I used the occasion to not only honor Sweden’s National Day but also advocate for the youth of Edo State,” he added. “Project RISE is a call for global cooperation. The battle against cultism isn’t local — it’s a human development issue that demands global attention.”
The Project RISE campaign is expected to launch formally in the coming months with a comprehensive strategy involving education stakeholders, civil society, and community leaders. Mr Uriesi’s visit to the Swedish Embassy signals a promising diplomatic start to what many hope will become a transformational campaign in the fight against cultism in Nigeria.
