The Chairman of Okrika Local Government Area (LGA), Hon. Akuro Tobin, has launched the first phase of the Tobin Akuro Empowerment Programme (TAPP), providing financial grants and equipment to 400 beneficiaries across the LGA as part of efforts to strengthen livelihoods and promote human capacity development.
The beneficiaries were drawn from different communities across Okrika LGA, including persons living with disabilities, in what the council described as an inclusive initiative aimed at supporting residents with practical tools and financial assistance to improve their economic activities.
The empowerment programme, held at the council’s secretariat, featured the presentation of a symbolic cheque of sixty million naira, representing the funds to be disbursed to the selected beneficiaries.
Speaking during the event, Hon. Tobin explained that the initiative was part of his administration’s commitment to empowering residents and fulfilling campaign promises made to the people of Okrika.
“The programme was designed to support our people and improve their standard of living. It also aligns with the Renewed Hope agenda and our commitment as a local government to create opportunities for economic growth within our communities,” he said.
Beneficiaries received a range of equipment intended to support their various trades and economic activities. These included fishing boats, trading boats, paddles, fishing nets, and other fishing gear aimed at boosting the productivity of local fishermen.
Individuals who had previously undergone skill acquisition training, particularly in soap making, were also supported with starter packs and financial grants to help them establish their businesses. In addition, several market women received direct financial grants to expand their trading activities.
To ensure transparency and accountability, beneficiaries were required to remain after the ceremony to verify that the grants had been credited directly into their personal bank accounts.
The member representing Okrika Constituency in the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Linda Stewart-Somiari, who presented the items to the beneficiaries, encouraged them to utilise the support responsibly.
“These items and grants are meant to help you grow your businesses and support your families. Make good use of them and ensure they create sustainable income for you,” she advised.
Representatives of the beneficiaries included Mr. Kazaih Moses of Ogoloma Community, who received the items on behalf of fishermen; Madam Gladys Sotonye, who represented beneficiaries of the trading boats; and Ms. Asikiye Tamunopubo, who received the items on behalf of those trained in soap making.
Earlier, stakeholders of the LGA, including Dr. Samson Parker, Chief Amangi Sunday Owi-Opuoru, and Hon. Deinma Iyalla, delivered goodwill messages and urged beneficiaries to take advantage of the opportunity.
Hon. Iyalla also donated twenty thousand naira each to the skill acquisition beneficiaries to support their start-up efforts.
Also present at the event were the Vice Chairman of the LGA, Hon. Charity Ibulubo; the Leader of the 8th Assembly, Hon. Paul Abam; the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the LGA, Hon. Vincent Bamson; and other principal officers of the council.
