…540 Beneficiaries cart home 250m, Nine Vehicles
The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno on Wednesday continued his empowerment drive, with the financial grants of 250 million naira and vehicle donations to 540 beneficiaries from Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin and Eastern Obolo local government areas.
The occasion was the Town- Square Meeting / Empowerment event for Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency, held at the Ikot Abasi local government council ground.
A cursory glance at the list of beneficiaries show that 234 persons were rewarded with N117,450,000 under the ARISE Traders Grant, N67,500,000 was spread to 96 farmers under the ARISE Farmers Scheme, while 195 business owners had their business boosted with equipment ranging from generators, sewing machines, hair dressing machines,barbing equipment among others through the ARISE Equipment Support Scheme.
Similarly, 30 million naira was equally spread across six entrepreneurs under the ARISE 5 Million Naira MSME Grant, leaving the remaining nine persons with 3 cars and six mini buses to share among themselves.
Speaking at the event, Governor Umo Eno described the area as particularly significant to him, referring to it as the home of his in-laws.
He thanked the people for their overwhelming support during the last general elections.
“We are not just expressing gratitude with words, we are demonstrating it through actions and projects.
“We are building schools, providing water, constructing roads, giving grants, and supporting small businesses across the state. These are things that have never happened at this scale before, and everyone — regardless of party — is benefiting.”
He emphasized that the administration’s empowerment initiatives are targeted at ordinary citizens, with no discrimination based on political affiliations, status or ethnic background.
“We are making sure that even the child of a common man without a godfather can benefit. Names of beneficiaries and the amounts disbursed have been made public. It is transparent and inclusive,” the Governor noted.
Governor Eno revealed that only four federal constituencies remain in the state consultation tour, stating that the purpose is to ensure citizen participation in governance and to allow communities to make inputs into the state’s budget.
“We are moving forward progressively, linking Akwa Ibom to the centre so we can claim our rightful place,” he added. “We must work together — PDP or APC — because we are already in the minority. If we are united, we can get what we truly deserve.”
Reaffirming his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Eno urged citizens not to fear the future but to trust in leadership at all levels.
“Believe in us, believe in the President. The future is bright. Under the ARISE Agenda, President Tinubu will return, the Senate President will return, and I will return, all to continue serving you,” he concluded.
In his tone setting at the event, the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Enobong Uwah, extended his appreciation to the people of Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency for the warm reception accorded the Governor and his entourage.
“Your Excellency, our leader, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, the rousing welcome we have received here today is no surprise because this is the home of one of your most committed supporter and friend, Engr Uwem Okoko,” he remarked.
Mr. Uwah acknowledged the strong political backing the Governor received from the constituency, stating that their support had remained consistent before, during, and after the elections. He also revealed that the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the area had openly endorsed the Governor after the previous endorsement by the PDP.
He further emphasized that the visit was not only to appreciate the people but also to assess their needs and implement targeted empowerment initiatives.
“We are here to listen, to understand your priorities, and to bring meaningful empowerment to the grassroots”, said Prince Uwah.
Highpoint of the event was the endorsement of the Governor for a second term, following a motion moved by Senator Ekong Sampson, and seconded by the House of Assembly member for Ikot Abasi/Eastern Obolo State Constituency, Mrs. Selina Ukpaetu.
Senator Ekong Sampson, representing Eket Senatorial District, delivered a passionate and poetic tribute to the Governor’s leadership, highlighting both historical and symbolic significance.
“You have revived industries through your vision and passion. Your leadership has been a miracle to our people restoring hope, building infrastructure, and sheltering the vulnerable,” he said.
The senator later led other stakeholders to present the Needs Assessment Document of the federal constituency to the Governor for consideration in the 2026 ‘Peoples Budget’.
In a goodwill message, the Managing Director/CEO of Hensek Integrated Services described Governor Umo Eno as “the best performing governor in Nigeria.”
He acknowledged the Governor’s strong commitment to infrastructure development, especially in Ikot Abasi federal constituency, attributing it to the Governor’s personal connection to the area as an in-law.
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Stephen Ntukekpo, speaking on behalf of both APC and PDP, praised the Governor’s character and inclusive governance style.
“This Governor has shown character, competence, and intentionality in bringing peace and unity and that is why we have resolved to assure him of our total support for a second term. Our solidarity is unshakeable,” he said.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Chairman of Ikot Abasi Local Government Area, Hon. Ime Essien, on behalf of his counterparts from Eastern Obolo and Mkpat Enin LGAs, warmly welcomed the Governor to the constituency, describing him as “a promise keeper” and a leader who has stayed true to his word.
“Your Excellency, we welcome you once again as our Governor and a leader who keeps his promises,” he said. “We are grateful for the many projects you have brought to this federal constituency from roads to schools and other vital infrastructure.”
“You came here in 2023 to seek our support, and we gave it. Today, we reaffirm that support not just for now, but for 2027 and beyond,” he declared.
Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Mobilization, Comrade Ini Akpan, described the Governor’s visit as a “homecoming,” highlighting his deep ties to the constituency.
“The youths will continue to remain peaceful, and we our pledging our unflinching support for your administration now and come 2027 and beyond,” he said.
Also speaking, Barr. Kufre Udosen, Special Adviser on Political and Legislative Affairs and Social Reorientation, lauded the Governor for making every local government area within the constituency a visible project site.
Photos:
