Ibibio ethnic nationality leaders under the aegis of their umbrella socio-cultural association – Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio (MMI), has applauded the Akwa Ibom State government for supporting small business owners across the 31 local government areas with a lifeline of N31 billion.
It, however, expressed concern over the challenges faced by the people.
LEADERSHIP learnt that the governor approved the release of the N31 billion Economic Empowerment Programme (EEP) targeted at 615, 912 youths, women, traders, farmers, transport operators and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to cushion the effects of the hard times on their livelihoods.
The spokesperson of the organisation, Pastor Idongesit Ikono, who spoke on behalf of the group in Uyo, the state capital, described the gesture as a timely intervention to save small businesses from going under.
“The allocation of N1 billion to each LGA underscores a bold and unprecedented commitment to grassroots economic development, social inclusion and shared prosperity. It is a practical demonstration of purposeful leadership and a clear investment in the productive capacity of Akwa Ibom people.
“MMI notes with satisfaction that the programme encompasses Youth Skills Acquisition, Training and Starter Packs, Women Cooperative Business Support, Traders Business Grants, Agricultural Support and Farm Inputs, SME Development and Enterprise Growth, as well as the Transport Empowerment Scheme.
“With an estimated 165,912 beneficiaries, this far-reaching intervention has the potential to deepen entrepreneurship, stimulate local enterprise, enhance agricultural productivity, create sustainable employment and significantly reduce poverty across the state. Beyond the immediate financial support, the programme lays a solid foundation for long-term economic resilience by equipping beneficiaries with the tools and resources required to build enduring livelihoods,” he said.
Besides, the organisation noted the composition of the Implementation Committee under the chairmanship of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prince Enobong Uwah.
“MMI expresses confidence in the capacity of the Committee to deliver a process that is transparent, accountable and credible. We expect the implementation to be guided strictly by merit, fairness and equity, ensuring that genuine beneficiaries are identified through an open and verifiable process that is completely insulated from partisan politics, favouritism and undue influence. This is imperative if the lofty objectives of the programme are to be fully realised.
“We believe this intervention will inject fresh momentum into the State’s economy, strengthen small businesses, expand agricultural production, stimulate commerce across rural and urban communities, and lift thousands of families above the poverty threshold. When effectively implemented, its multiplier effect will resonate across every sector of the Akwa Ibom economy.
“MMI urges all beneficiaries to embrace this opportunity with a deep sense of responsibility. The grants, productive assets and other forms of support should not be viewed as a share of the “national cake” or an avenue for short-term consumption. Rather, they should be deployed prudently to build sustainable businesses, create employment, increase productivity and improve the socio-economic well-being of families and communities.
“As the foremost socio-cultural organisation of the Ibibio people, Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio reaffirms its unwavering commitment to supporting policies and programmes that promote the welfare, prosperity and collective advancement of Akwa Ibom State. We shall continue to partner with all well-meaning stakeholders in advancing initiatives that foster economic empowerment, social justice, unity and sustainable development for the benefit of present and future generations.
“MMI commends the Akwa Ibom State Government on this landmark initiative and calls on all stakeholders to work collectively to ensure its successful implementation for the greater good of the State,” he stressed.
