The Akwa Ibom State Government has given N335 million to help farmers, traders, and business owners in Oron Federal Constituency. This money is to support small businesses, improve farming, and make life better for people in the area. Governor Umo Eno announced this during a town hall meeting where he listened to people’s needs and shared plans to grow the economy from the grassroots.
How the Money Was Shared
The N335 million was divided among different groups. Here is a simple breakdown:
| Group | Amount Given | Number of People Helped |
|---|---|---|
| Farmers (ARISE Scheme) | N51 million | 108 |
| Business Owners/Traders | N225 million | 543 |
| Entrepreneurs | N50 million | 10 (Each got N5 million) |
| Total | N335 million | 661 |
This support went to people in five Local Government Areas (LGAs): Oron, Okobo, Udung Uko, Urue Offong Oruko, and Mbo. Governor Eno said this is part of the ARISE Empowerment Programme, which helps hardworking farmers and small business owners.
Why This Money Matters
Governor Umo Eno explained that supporting farmers and traders is a big way to grow the local economy. When people at the grassroots get money, it creates jobs, increases food production, and helps families earn more. During the meeting, he also asked people for ideas to plan the 2026 “People’s Budget.” This shows the government wants to hear what the people need.
Other Good News from the Governor
Apart from the money, Governor Eno shared updates on some projects:
- The 14km Airport – Nsit Atai – Okobo Road is almost finished after many years of delay.
- A new city gate project will soon start as part of the Ibom Deep Seaport Project.
- A sales center is coming to help traders sell more goods.
These projects prove the government is working on both people and infrastructure.
Past Support from the Government
This is not the first time the state has helped its people. For example:
- In Eket LGA, N50 million was given to 500 petty traders.
- In February 2024, the government promised over N5.1 billion to support farmers and traders across all 31 LGAs.
- Under the ARISE Programme, N2 billion will go to farmers and another N2 billion to traders statewide.
This shows the government’s support is for everyone, not just one area.
Benefits of the N335 Million
This money will bring many good things, such as:
- More jobs for young people and women.
- Better farming with good tools and seeds.
- Help for new businesses and small traders.
- More money moving around in the local economy.
- Rural communities getting included in government plans.
Conclusion
Governor Umo Eno and the Akwa Ibom State Government are serious about helping farmers and business owners. The N335 million given to Oron Federal Constituency is part of a bigger plan to grow the economy and support small businesses. With road projects and the Ibom Deep Seaport also in progress, the state is building a strong future for its people. By listening to citizens and giving more help, Akwa Ibom is showing it cares about economic growth and better lives for all.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who got the N335 million support?
Farmers, small business owners, traders, and entrepreneurs in the five LGAs of Oron Federal Constituency.
Q2: How much did each entrepreneur receive?
Each of the 10 entrepreneurs got N5 million.
Q3: What is the ARISE Empowerment Programme?
It’s a program by Governor Umo Eno to support farmers and traders across Akwa Ibom.
Q4: Has the state given money before?
Yes, in February 2024, the government promised N5.1 billion for farmers and traders across all 31 LGAs.
Q5: Are there other projects happening?
Yes, the 14km Airport – Okobo road is almost done, and new projects like a city gate and sales center are starting soon.