August 27, 2025 – Thousands of indigenes of Esit Eket Local Government Area, including people with disabilities, are currently receiving massive food aid in continuation of the third phase of the Free Food Distribution Exercise under Governor Umo Eno’s Food Security Programme.
The beneficiaries, drawn from all the 11 wards of the LGA, gathered at the Council Headquarters in Uquo to receive food supplies that include bags of rice and beans. The initiative, according to officials, is aimed at tackling hunger, food insecurity, and providing support to vulnerable households.
Governor Umo Eno, represented by the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, explained that the distribution is targeted at easing the burden of families struggling with economic hardship.
“The primary goal of this exercise is to provide immediate relief to vulnerable individuals and families who are facing challenges of food insecurity,” she stated.
The Food Security Programme, initiated by Governor Umo Eno, is being facilitated through his Personal Assistants in the 368 wards across the state. These assistants collect vouchers from the Akwa Ibom State Bulk Purchase Agency for onward redistribution to vulnerable persons captured in the social register.
The Humanitarian Affairs Commissioner was joined by the General Manager of Akwa Ibom State Bulk Purchase Agency, Hon. Unyime Etim, alongside other members of the Ministry and the Agency, to oversee the smooth process of the distribution.
Present at the Council Headquarters to receive the team and maintain orderliness were the Chairperson of Esit Eket LGA, Hon. Uduak Ikot, the Member representing Esit Eket in the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly, Engr. Udobia Friday, the Vice Chairman of Esit Eket LGA, Hon. Etang Nkanga, Councillors, and Ward Personal Assistants to the Governor.
Beneficiaries who spoke during the exercise commended the Governor for what they described as compassionate and timely intervention.
“This is a sign of true leadership. Governor Umo Eno has shown that he cares for the poor and vulnerable, and we are grateful for this,” a beneficiary remarked, while others described the programme as worthy of emulation.