Akwa Ibom Allocates N400m Grant to Physically Challenged Entrepreneur

Mr. Jones Okon Akpan, a uniquely-abled entrepreneur hailing from Akwa Ibom State, alongside 779 other individuals, has been granted a N400 million fund for their businesses by the State Government. This grant forms a component of the Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme spearheaded by the state Governor, Umo Eno. At a ceremony held at the Government House Banquet Hall in Uyo, Governor Eno, moved by empathy, ensured that Akpan received suitable mobility aids and additional assistance.

During the event, Governor Eno addressed the beneficiaries, emphasizing their role as ambassadors of the Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme. He urged them to concentrate on developing their businesses rather than engaging in politics. The governor stressed the importance of their commitment to the programme’s success, highlighting the significance of the training they had received.

Furthermore, Governor Eno shared his own journey to success, underscoring the potential of the seed money provided to the beneficiaries. He recounted his experience of starting a hotel with just five rooms and witnessing significant growth over time. The governor encouraged the beneficiaries to remain determined, resilient, and focused on their goals, assuring them of continued support from the government.

Imoabasi Jacob, the team lead of Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurship Development, expressed gratitude to the governor for his support of the business community. He expressed confidence that with proper training, the grants would yield positive results for all recipients.

In her keynote address, Ms. Nnena Ugwu, from the Enterprise Development Center at Pan-Atlantic University Lagos, advised the beneficiaries to embrace discipline, commitment, and focus to achieve success in their ventures. Additionally, Chief Assam Assam SAN, the Director General of the Umo Eno/Akon Eyakenyi campaign, praised the governor for fulfilling his campaign promises and encouraged the beneficiaries to view the seed money as a platform to elevate themselves globally in entrepreneurship.

Representatives of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Ekaette Umoh from Ibom-LED and Daniel Esetang from Batch 1 Alumni President, expressed gratitude for the grant and pledged to utilize it responsibly for the expansion of their businesses and the overall benefit of the State.

Governor Eno had previously pledged to stimulate the state’s economy by reigniting the entrepreneurial spirit among its people. He also announced plans to construct an international market in Ikot Ekpene to enhance economic activities and reduce the need for young entrepreneurs to seek raw materials outside the state.