Essien Udim Lawmaker Distributes N15.25m Grants to 61 Constituents

In a move to boost economic growth and empower his constituents, the member representing Essien Udim State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Ukpong Akpabio II, has disbursed grants totalling N15.25 million to 61 beneficiaries. The empowerment programme, which is the first phase of the Prince Ukpong Akpabio II Business and Agric Grant Scheme, was launched in Ukana Ikot Ntuen, Essien Udim Local Government Area. Each beneficiary received N250,000 to support and expand their business or agricultural ventures. The event, which marked Akpabio's third anniversary as a member of the State House of Assembly, was attended by various stakeholders, including current and former political office holders, community leaders, and party stalwarts. Akpabio stated that the initiative was designed to fulfill his campaign promise to empower young people and enhance economic opportunities for his constituents. He explained that the grant complements the educational, youth empowerment, and human capacity development programmes being championed by Governor Umo Eno under the ARISE Agenda, as well as the empowerment initiatives of President Bola Tinubu and the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio. A monitoring committee has been constituted to oversee the utilization of the grants and ensure that beneficiaries invest the funds in productive ventures. The empowerment programme is expected to continue in phases to promote entrepreneurship, agricultural development, and economic self-reliance among Akpabio's constituents. The selection process for the beneficiaries was carried out by the Business and Agric Grant Committee, which selected five beneficiaries from each of the 11 wards in Essien Udim Local Government Area, and an additional six beneficiaries under the Special Consideration Category. The event was commended by the State Publicity Secretary of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Comrade Paul Ibara, who praised Akpabio's legislative contributions, empowerment initiatives, and constituency projects.