Sunday, August 31, 2025 – Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced a ₦31 billion empowerment scheme for 2026, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive development and equal opportunities for all citizens and residents.
Speaking on Sunday, August 31, at the closing ceremony of the three-day Convention of the All Nations Christian Ministry International in Eket, themed “They’re Men, Not God”, the Governor disclosed that each of the 31 local government areas will access ₦1 billion for direct citizens’ empowerment, business support, and grants. He explained that the scheme will be implemented through structured programmes such as Ibom LED, Dakkada Skills Acquisition, and other interventions.
Beneficiaries, according to him, will be digitally harvested through dedicated portals to ensure transparency and accountability.
Governor Eno stated, “The intervention has been adequately provided for in the 2026 People’s Budget of the State,” underscoring his administration’s resolve to institutionalize empowerment programmes that reach every Akwa Ibom resident.
Addressing the ongoing debates about empowerment for political support groups, the Governor clarified that while members of such groups are entitled to benefit as citizens, the State cannot directly fund political associations. He emphasized, “We are determined to provide system-driven opportunities for all Akwa Ibomites through budgeted programmes and institutional structures.”
In his remarks to the youth, Governor Eno cautioned against involvement in cultism and urged young people to embrace economically viable ventures that would make them more self-reliant and productive members of society.
The convention, which drew thousands of worshippers, also featured renowned guest speakers such as Rev. Simeon Afolabi, Bishop Enobong Essien, Lady Apostle Helen Ukpabio, Rev. Dr. Godwin Gboyega Shitta, Rev. Dr. Godwin Amaowoh, and Pastor Ndaeyo Udomfuk. The event climaxed with prayers for Akwa Ibom State, worship sessions, and thanksgiving for the visible transformation taking place under the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno’s administration.
The ₦31 billion empowerment scheme, spread across all 31 local government areas, is designed to promote business support, youth empowerment, and skill acquisition in line with sustainable development goals and the economic growth plans of the State.