September 3, 2025 – Akwa Ibom State Government today continued the third phase of its Free Food Distribution Exercise under the Food Security Programme, reaching out to the poorest and most vulnerable residents of Ewang, Mbo Local Government Area, with truck-loads of palliatives.
Thousands of residents, including people with disabilities, gathered at the Local Government Council Headquarters as early as 8am to await the arrival of the Food Distribution Team. The team, led by the Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Princess Emem Ibanga, distributed bags of staple food items across all 11 Wards of the Local Government Area.
While addressing the beneficiaries, Princess Ibanga explained that the programme was designed to offer short-term relief. She stated, “This food distribution is an interventionist programme billed for the short-term, so I urge everyone to return to the farms for sustained food security.” Her message reinforced the importance of agriculture in achieving long-term food stability in the state.
In his remarks, the Council Chairman of Mbo LGA, Hon. Sunday Etim, accompanied by his Vice Chairman and Secretary, expressed appreciation to Governor Umo Eno for delivering on his promise to support vulnerable residents. He said, “We thank the Governor for alleviating the immediate food worries of our people. Mbo LGA assures His Excellency of massive support in his future endeavors.”
On ground to monitor the exercise was the Special Adviser to the Governor on Cooperatives and Rural Development, Rt. Hon. Alice Ekpenyong, an indigene of the area and two-time member of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly. She joined other officials to ensure a smooth distribution process.
Also present were the General Manager of the Akwa Ibom State Bulk Purchase Agency, Hon. Unyime Etim, alongside Councillors and Ward Personal Assistants to the Governor, who have been instrumental in moving food vouchers from the Agency to the vulnerable across their communities.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the state government, describing the initiative as timely and uplifting. One resident noted that the palliatives were “a thoughtful and soul-lifting gesture” that brought relief to struggling families.