Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima has launched a ₦1 billion family-based business grant initiative in the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency of Akwa Ibom State, describing the programme as a model for translating democratic promises into tangible economic empowerment at the grassroots.
He said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to interventions that directly uplift households and stimulate inclusive growth.
Speaking at the launch of the Renewed Hope/ARISE Agenda grant programme, the vice president noted that sustainable national development requires empowering citizens to become active participants in economic reconstruction.
“There is greater honour in empowering a man to create than in offering him a fleeting gift. True empowerment endures because it teaches the mind to search for its own doors, its own pathways, and its own opportunities,” the vice president said.
The initiative, conceived by the member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Unyime Idem, provides seed capital directly to families to establish or expand small enterprises.
Vice President Shettima said the programme exemplifies President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda priorities, which include economic empowerment, job creation, support for micro, small and medium enterprises, poverty reduction, and expanded social protection.
He stated, “This gathering aligns with the principle that democracy works when the dividends promised by us reach families at the grassroots, uplift our communities, and expand opportunities for all.
“Democracy finds its true essence not in speeches but in interventions that touch the lives of ordinary people in extraordinary ways,” he added.
The Vice President praised the collaboration between the federal and state governments, specifically acknowledging Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, which focuses on agricultural expansion, rural development, SME support and social inclusion.
“This is what governance should look like: a seamless convergence of federal and state agendas at the exact point where citizens feel the impact. When leadership aligns in purpose, the people inherit progress,” he said.
He added that the family-based approach would strengthen local enterprises, increase household incomes, expand the local economy, empower women and youth, reduce dependency, and enhance productivity and self-reliance.
“When a family is empowered, a community is empowered; when a community is empowered, a nation is strengthened,” he explained.
The Vice President urged beneficiaries to invest the seed capital wisely, noting its potential to become the foundation for generational progress. He also positioned the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam programme as a template for public office holders nationwide.
In his remarks, the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Dr Akon Eyakenyi, thanked the Vice President for always honouring the state’s invitation, saying he is seen in the state “not only as a distinguished leader but as a brother who has been warmly embraced” by the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno.
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“Your frequent visits to Akwa Ibom State have demonstrated a commitment to our people and our development. I am confident that our governor has graciously extended his hospitality to you, reflecting the strong bonds we share as sons of this great state,” Senator Eyakenyi said.
The Deputy Governor urged the beneficiaries to utilise the funds prudently, invest in their businesses, and contribute meaningfully to the local economy.
Also speaking, the member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Unyime Idem, thanked the Vice President for gracing the launch, noting that the grant distribution process was transparent and inclusive, with 3,000 families benefiting.
“What it, therefore, means is that the Renewed Hope Agenda of the federal government and the ARISE Agenda of the state were fully captured,” the lawmaker explained, as he assured that President Tinubu’s second-term bid is secured, saying the beneficiaries were ready to vote and return the President in 2027.