In a grand gesture of gratitude and development, Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Monday distributed empowerment items and business grants worth billions of Naira to constituents in Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District.
The event, held amidst fanfare, aimed to boost economic activities and improve the livelihoods of beneficiaries across the district.
The empowerment items included sports utility vehicles (SUVs), cars, buses, tricycle pick-ups, farm tricycles, vulcanizing machines, knapsack sprayers, makeup kits, deep freezers, generators, grinding machines, motorcycles, computers, and mini hand tractors. Business grants were also disbursed to support entrepreneurial initiatives among constituents.
Traditional rulers in the district were not left out, as each of the 10 Paramount Rulers received a sports utility vehicle. Additionally, over 500 students benefited from scholarships and bursaries, signaling a commitment to fostering education and youth development.
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In a statement, Akpabio’s Special Assistant on Media and Communication, Anietie Ekong, highlighted that the programme was part of the Senate President’s effort to appreciate constituents for their overwhelming support during the last elections.
Akpabio noted that out of the 160,000 votes cast for President Bola Tinubu in Akwa Ibom State, over 119,000 came from his senatorial district.
“This empowerment programme is a way to give back to my people and thank them for their unwavering support for me and President Tinubu,” Akpabio said.
“These items and grants will help enhance economic activities, improve livelihoods, and uplift the overall well-being of the people.”
Akpabio also commended President Tinubu for initiating regional development commissions, emphasizing their role in driving grassroots development. “The 10th National Assembly is committed to ensuring that development reaches every corner of the nation,” he said. He urged the people of the South-South and South-East regions to continue supporting the administration for its commitment to regional progress.
The event drew a large audience, including senators, political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, women’s groups, and youth representatives. Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro praised Akpabio’s pragmatic leadership, which has garnered bipartisan support in the 10th National Assembly.
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Similarly, Minister of Petroleum Resources (Gas) Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo lauded Akpabio for delivering on his mandate and reaffirmed the constituents’ commitment to re-elect him for continued effective representation.
The empowerment initiative underscores Akpabio’s dedication to fostering development and strengthening ties with his constituents, marking a significant step towards sustainable growth and prosperity in Akwa Ibom North West.