Eastern Obolo LG chairman gifts N31.5m to 60 indigenes

…lauds Gov Eno’s support and inspiration

Empowerment and skills acquisition programmes are gaining momentum across Akwa Ibom State. The people of Eastern Obolo Local Government Area are not left behind.

‎On Monday, June 23rd, the Executive Chairman of Eastern Obolo, Rt. Hon. Samuel Nteogwuija, flagged off a N31. The Skills Acquisition Training and Business Grant Scheme amounting to 55 million under the Unifier First Batch was initiated. It benefits 60 youths and 10 women across the local government area.

‎Speaking during the official launch, the Chairman commended the Governor, Pst. Umo Eno, PhD, for granting local government chairmen the autonomy to lead and manage their councils effectively.

‎“As a local government chairman, I have benefited immensely from His Excellency, the Governor. He has graciously allowed us to operate independently and serve our people diligently by providing the necessary support,” he stated.

‎Rt. Hon. Nteogwuija explained that when he assumed office seven months ago, he committed to prioritising youth empowerment. He observed a manpower gap among companies operating within the area.

‎“When I came on board, I promised my youths. They are my primary constituency. I committed to investing in capacity building rather than just giving handouts. Today, that promise is taking shape. We have selected interested youths from across the ten wards. They will be trained in various skill areas. These areas include truck driving, excavator operation, crane handling, bulldozer operation, catering, security, and forklift handling,” he revealed.

‎The chairman further disclosed that the initiative was made possible through personal sacrifices and prudent financial management.

‎“It’s a passion-driven project, not because I had excess funds, but because of the promise I made. Through consistent savings over the past few months, I was able to raise N31,550,000.00 for this first batch. This funds the full training of 60 youths. It also provides business grants for 10 women from all ten wards.”

‎Some beneficiaries expressed deep appreciation for what they described as a life-changing opportunity.

‎Eli from Okopedi, a forklift operator, said, “I’m so happy to be part of this empowerment. I intend to use this opportunity wisely. I sincerely thank the chairman for his great leadership.”

‎Also, Matthias from Amadaka Town added, “I’m grateful to be a beneficiary of this program. I promise to make the best of it, make my chairman proud, and inspire other young people in Eastern Obolo.”

‎Also speaking, Pastor Sylvanus Okafia, a clergyman, described the initiative as exemplary:

‎“The selection and empowerment process is commendable. We used to see this kind of initiative in Uyo, but today, it has reached Eastern Obolo. I must commend the chairman; he has gone beyond our expectations. Many of us were unsure if he would take the right path. Others thought he might follow the traditional route. However, he has proven himself.

‎“Things used to be bad here, especially during the oil spill crises, but today, we are seeing real change. Both religious and traditional leaders are here today. This presence is a testament to how inclusive and impactful this initiative is. The chairman has united us and empowered our children.”

‎The flag-off marks the beginning of a robust empowerment drive by the Rt. Hon. Samuel Nteogwuija-led administration in Eastern Obollo LGA, with more batches and initiatives expected in the coming months.