In Akwa Ibom State, no fewer than eight hundred entrepreneurs received a business grant of N500,000 each, courtesy of Governor Pastor Umo Eno, aligning with the industrial advancement and wealth creation goals of his blueprint, the ARISE Agenda. The total amount of N400 million was allocated under the State’s Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme (EAP).
At the Government House Banquet Hall in Uyo, amidst enthusiastic celebrations, the Governor handed out the cheques and congratulated the beneficiaries, emphasizing their role as ambassadors of the EAP. He emphasized that the program’s continuity relies on their success and highlighted the importance of the training they received.
Offering business advice, the Governor urged them to prioritize entrepreneurship over politics and emphasized the potential for success with proper dedication and focus. He shared personal anecdotes to inspire them and promised ongoing government support.
The Governor’s compassionate gesture towards a physically challenged beneficiary, Mr. Jones Okon Akpan, included providing him with mobility assistance and additional support. Various speakers, including Pastor Imoabasi Jacob and Ms. Nnena Ugwu, stressed the importance of discipline and commitment for business success.
Chief Assam Assam SAN praised the Governor for fulfilling campaign promises and advised beneficiaries to view the seed money as a platform for global entrepreneurship. Representatives from Ibom-LED expressed gratitude for the Governor’s vision, assuring judicious use of the grants for business expansion and the state’s benefit.
The narrative highlights the story of one beneficiary, Jones, whose determination symbolizes overcoming disabilities. Governor Umo Eno’s humility and commitment to entrepreneurship, knowledge transfer, and wealth creation shine through in his interactions, exemplified by his generosity towards Jones.
The Governor’s initiatives, including partnerships with the Bank of Industry and the establishment of the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Center, aim to support small and medium businesses and empower youths. These efforts, under the ARISE Agenda, signify a commitment to elevating local businesses and individuals above limitations.
The event’s climax included the distribution of cheques to beneficiaries from various programmes, emphasizing the government’s dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and economic empowerment across Akwa Ibom State.
