By Glory Mfoniso
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has rolled out a fresh ₦361.45 million empowerment package for women, youths, traders, and artisans across Etinan Federal Constituency.
The Governor made the announcement during the ARISE Town Square Meeting/Empowerment Tour for Etinan Federal Constituency, comprising Etinan, Nsit Ibom, and Nsit Ubium Local Government Areas, tagged ” The Grand Homecoming”.
While praising women for their resilience and loyalty in the face of challenges, Governor Eno captured the crowd’s emotions when he singled out young women who braved a sudden downpour at the rally.
“When the showers of blessing came, the men ran away. But the female youths stood still. That is resilience, that is courage. It shows that when women stand behind you, they truly stand behind you. I salute you.” he commended.
The Governor stressed that the 10 Town Square engagements were powered by grassroots stakeholders, not state funds.
“People think this is government money. The government has not put a dime into this gathering. Stakeholders from Abak to Oron contribute to make this happen. It is their love, trust and belief in this project,” he clarified.
In recognition of their role, Governor Eno announced ₦500,000 each to support several women and youth groups, present at the meeting.
“Regardless of what others have contributed, I am personally supporting these groups with ₦500,000 each. This is from the Governor to you for your resilience,” he said to loud cheers.
Governor Eno outlined several new interventions including; Youth-friendly centres** in all 31 LGAs, beginning with communities that first provide land, ₦2 billion allocation each for farmers’ grants, traders’ grants, and student support in the 2026 budget.
Other interventions include a ₦10 billion MSME support fund to be accessed through the state’s digital empowerment portal, ₦2 billion counterpart funding with the Bank of Industry for small businesses and Ongoing local government chairmen’s residence projects to deepen grassroots governance.
On transparency, Eno was emphatic:
“I stand boldly to be challenged that I have never tampered with local government funds. Salaries are deducted, and funds go to the councils. Each chairman must live and work in his local government headquarters,” he declared
The Governor further disclosed that ₦800 million has been earmarked to support non-indigenous residents doing business in Akwa Ibom.
“We accommodate all who are here for peace. But if you are here to make trouble, we will show you the way back,” he warned.
He linked investments in Ibom Air, Agriculture, SMEs, and Youth Skills to a deliberate push for economic diversification.
“This is not about politics alone. It is about securing livelihoods and building a stronger economy that works for our people,” he noted.
Reinforcing his message of unity, Governor Eno reminded the crowd that the APC’s broom symbol represents collective strength.
“The broom stands for oneness and togetherness. Akwa Ibom is now connected to the centre. We are an APC state,” he declared.
Political observers say the Governor’s governance approach of investing in grassroots empowerment, supporting farmers, traders, and youth entrepreneurs, embracing inclusivity, diversifying the economy, empowering citizens, and driving national cohesion, reflects the national vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
