Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has released ₦492 million in grants to 1,187 young people to boost trading, farming, and equipment acquisition, in a bid to stimulate entrepreneurship and drive local economic development.
The beneficiaries include 276 youths under the ARISE Farmers Grant, 628 under the ARISE Traders Grant, and 263 under the ARISE Equipment Support Scheme. In addition, eight entrepreneurs received ₦5 million each through the MSME Grant, while 12 others were presented with cars and minibuses to support their businesses.
Speaking during the disbursement ceremony at Uyo Township Square, Governor Eno reflected on his two years in office, noting that his administration has completed 116 projects, including roads, health centres, elderly homes, and schools, in Uyo, Uruan, Nsit Attai, and Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Areas.
He explained that the stakeholder meeting was convened to identify community needs for inclusion in the 2026 People’s Budget and to ensure that grants reach beneficiaries across all federal constituencies in the state.
Governor Eno also commended the people of Uyo for their strong turnout and praised the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, for fostering unity and strengthening collaboration between residents and the government.
For MSMEs and young entrepreneurs, the funding represents a significant opportunity to expand operations, access needed equipment, and participate more actively in the state’s growing economic landscape.
