MMI Demands Transparency As Eno’s ₦31bn Empowerment Scheme Targets 165,000 Beneficiaries

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Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio (MMI), a foremost socio-cultural organization of the Ibibio ethnic nationality, has declared that the success of the State Government’s newly approved ₦31 billion Economic Empowerment Programme will ultimately depend not on the size of the fund but on how transparently it is implemented,

In a statement signed by the organization’s International Public Relations Officer, Akparawa Idongesit Ikono and made available to our correspondent in Uyo on Monday, MMI warned that fairness and accountability must guide the distribution process if the intervention is to deliver meaningful development.

While applauding Governor Umo Eno for approving what it described as one of the largest grassroots economic intervention programmes in the state’s history, MMI stressed that the initiative has the potential to transform thousands of lives, stimulate local economies and reduce poverty only if genuine beneficiaries are allowed to access the scheme without political interference.

MMI described the allocation of ₦1 billion to each of the state’s 31 local government areas as a deliberate investment in grassroots prosperity capable of reshaping livelihoods across urban and rural communities.

According to the organisation, the programme’s broad coverage of youths, women, traders, farmers, transport operators and small businesses demonstrates a recognition that sustainable economic growth begins with empowering ordinary citizens who form the backbone of the state’s economy.

The group noted that the intervention, expected to reach about 165,912 beneficiaries, goes beyond financial assistance by providing skills acquisition, starter packs, agricultural inputs, cooperative support, transport empowerment and enterprise development aimed at building long-term economic resilience.

MMI, however, maintained that public confidence in the programme would rest largely on the credibility of its implementation process, welcoming the inauguration of the implementation committee headed by Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, while urging members to uphold the highest standards of integrity.

“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.”

The organisation argued that ensuring transparency would not only protect public trust but also maximise the developmental impact of the intervention by directing resources to those who genuinely need support to expand businesses, improve productivity and create jobs.

It expressed optimism that, if faithfully executed, the programme would stimulate commerce, strengthen small and medium enterprises, increase agricultural output and inject fresh momentum into the Akwa Ibom economy through widespread grassroots participation.

“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.”

MMI also challenged prospective beneficiaries to treat the grants and productive assets as tools for wealth creation rather than temporary financial relief, saying responsible utilisation would multiply the programme’s impact across families and communities.

“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.”

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies that promote inclusive development, economic justice and social progress, pledging to continue partnering with stakeholders to advance initiatives capable of improving the welfare of Akwa Ibom people.

It further congratulated the state government for what it called a landmark intervention, while urging citizens, community leaders and relevant institutions to work together to ensure that the programme achieves its intended objectives.

“The allocation of ₦1 billion to each Local Government Area 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,” the statement stated.