By Rismadarvoice, 19 November
Abak Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State on Tuesday disbursed N27.6 million as business support grants to 314 indigenes drawn from 98 villages across the Midim, Otoro, and Ediene clans.
The beneficiaries received the funds during an empowerment ceremony in Abak that highlighted the council’s commitment to strengthening small businesses and uplifting rural communities.
Presenting the grants, the Chairman of Abak Local Government, Mrs. Ime Effiong Charles, described the initiative as one of the many people-focused programmes under her BEST Agenda, designed to boost entrepreneurship, stimulate rural economies, and improve household financial stability across the local government area.
Mrs. Charles explained that each beneficiary received N200,000 in cash, and urged them to deploy the resources prudently to grow their businesses and become economically self-reliant.
A prominent indigene of the area and Managing Director/CEO of Akwa Ibom Investment and Property Company Limited (APICO), Mr. Patrick Udomfang, in a goodwill message delivered on his behalf, commended the Chairman for her exceptional dedication to grassroots economic development.
He described the gesture as “a bold and visionary investment in human capital.”
Also speaking, the Paramount Ruler of Abak and Chairman of the Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, Akuku Sylvester Udofia, expressed delight over the empowerment programme, noting that the council chairman has consistently demonstrated leadership that prioritises the welfare of her people.
The former Deputy Speaker of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Uwem Udoma, represented by Hon. Ekopimo Ezekiel, praised the initiative as a clear demonstration of the dividends of electing a people-oriented leader.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Christopher John Obo (Midim Clan), Mrs. Grace Udofia (Otoro Clan), and Princess Itoro Umanah (Ediene Clan), expressed gratitude to the Chairman for the life-changing support and assured that the funds would be channeled into meaningful ventures.
