Akwa Ibom State Government has awarded a N400 million business grant to Mr. Jones Okon Akpan, a physically challenged entrepreneur, and 779 other beneficiaries as part of the Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme initiated by Governor Umo Eno.
The presentation ceremony took place at the Government House Banquet Hall in Uyo, where Governor Eno, driven by compassion, directed that Mr. Jones Okon Akpan be provided with appropriate mobility aids and additional support.
Addressing the beneficiaries, Governor Eno emphasized that they are ambassadors of the Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme and urged them to focus on their businesses rather than getting involved in politics. He stated that the continuation of the programme depends on their success and the training they have received.
Governor Eno shared his own success story, highlighting the importance of determination, sacrifice, and self-denial in achieving success. He assured the beneficiaries of continued support from the government and encouraged them to stay connected to the entrepreneurship community.
Imoabasi Jacob, the team lead of Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurship Development, commended the governor for his support to the business community in the state. He expressed confidence that with proper training, the grants would yield fruitful outcomes for all the beneficiaries.
Ms. Nnena Ugwu, Head of Alumni Directorate and Support Services at the Enterprise Development Center, Pan-Atlantic University Lagos, delivered a keynote address. She advised the beneficiaries to cultivate discipline, commitment, and focus in order to achieve success in their ventures.
Chief Assam Assam SAN, the Director General of the Umo Eno/Akon Eyakenyi campaign, appreciated the governor for fulfilling his campaign promises. He urged the beneficiaries to see the grant as a springboard that will elevate them to global recognition in the field of entrepreneurship.
Representatives of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Ekaette Umoh from Ibom-LED and Daniel Esetang representing Batch 1 Alumni President, expressed gratitude on behalf of the recipients. They assured that the grant would be judiciously used to expand their businesses for the greater good of the State.
In January, Governor Eno pledged to boost the state’s economy by reviving the entrepreneurial spirit of the people. He also announced plans to construct an international market in Ikot Ekpene, which would reduce the need for young entrepreneurs to travel outside the state in search of raw materials, thereby enhancing economic activities.
