Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, Southern Nigeria, has reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance, local government autonomy, and sustainable development by unveiling a ₦10 billion direct empowerment scheme across the state.
He made the announcement at the ARISE Town Square Meeting and Empowerment of Etinan Federal Constituency, which comprises Etinan, Nsit Ibom, and Nsit Ubium Local Government Areas, tagged “The Grand Homecoming.’
Unveiling the empowerment plan, Governor Eno said; ‘We have put ₦10 billion in the budget for empowerment The funds were carefully allocated: N2 billion each for farmers, traders, students, MSMEs, and other categories.”
He also highlighted additional initiatives, including N2 billion counterpart funding with the Bank of Industry to support small businesses, while urging youths to embrace digital registration for easier access to opportunities.
“Please go to the portal. There will be no slots. If you are not registered, you cannot benefit. Every young person must embrace digital literacy. Even mechanics now use computers. You must learn,”the Governor told the youths.
Governor Eno also announced the disbursement of ₦361.45 million to 844 beneficiaries from Etinan Federal Constituency.
Local Government Autonomy
On the role of local government councils’ autonomy, and transparency, the Governor said: “I stand boldly to be challenged: I have never touched local government funds. Salaries of teachers and workers must first be deducted, the rest is theirs.”
He however stated that “each chairman must live in his LGA headquarters. That is why we have awarded contracts for 30 chairman residences. By God’s grace, they will be completed.”
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On youth empowerment, Governor Eno charged Local Government Chairmen to support the new initiative:
“We are establishing Youth Friendly Centres in all 31 LGAs. Let every chairman give us 1,000 square metres of land. It is first come, first serve. Whoever brings the land first, we will start with them.”
The Governor dismissed allegations and speculations that the the just concluded 10 Town Square meeting were state-funded.
“People think this is government money. No. The government does not put a dime into this gathering. Stakeholders in the various federal constituencies tax themselves to sponsor this event. There is no budget for it. I am grateful for their love and trust, ” he explained
Support for Entrepreneurs
To foster national cohesion in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Governor announced ₦800 million support for non-indigene entrepreneurs resident in the State.
“We have kept aside ₦800 million for non-indigenes living and doing business here. We will verify those who are here for peace and progress and support them. But if you are here to make trouble, we will show you the way back,”he said.
Reiterating his agricultural agenda, Governor Eno said: “Farmers will receive renewed grants. Agriculture is the way to food security, and our administration will continue to support our farmers.”
He lauded the resilience of women and youths, pledging sustained empowerment and inclusive governance as his administration deepens grassroots development across the state.
On aviation, Governor Eno assured the gathering that “Ibom Air remains our pride. It is the flagship of Akwa Ibom. We will continue to sustain it.”
He called for party unity under the APC, saying: “Akwa Ibom is now connected to the centre. We are an APC state. Our symbol, the broom, stands for unity, oneness, and togetherness.”
He paid glowing tributes to Leaders at the national level, pledging support for national good.
“I thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and all leaders who have supported us. We must close ranks and work as one for the good of our state.” he commended.
The Governor further reassured all Akwa Ibom residents that “this Town Square meeting may end today, but service to Akwa Ibom has not ended. We have come to assess your needs, and we will continue to work with you to deliver more.”
Hauwa Abu