September 15, 2025 – Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has officially inaugurated the fourth cohort of the Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme (EAP) as part of his administration’s drive to promote entrepreneurship and develop future business leaders through the ARISE Agenda. The event took place at the IBOM-LED Complex in Uyo, the state capital.
During the flag-off ceremony, Governor Eno encouraged participants to take the 10-week training seriously, emphasizing the need for discipline, passion, and commitment.
He announced that each participant would receive a grant of N500,000 as seed capital to kick-start or grow their businesses. The governor urged the beneficiaries to manage the funds wisely to achieve long-term success.
According to him, “You are fortunate to be in a state that is not only training you as entrepreneurs but also providing a seed capital to start your journey. Do not take it for granted or treat it as an entitlement. The ₦500,000 that you would be given can transform your life if managed with discipline.”
He explained that Ibom LED would serve as a guide for participants to learn how to properly utilize the funds and develop sustainable businesses. The governor added that success in business comes from focus and determination, not just the size of the initial funding. “It is not the amount that matters, but the passion to succeed,” he said.
Governor Eno shared his personal entrepreneurial story, recalling how he started his chain of businesses with a small five-room hotel. Through dedication, focus, and the grace of God, he said the business gradually grew into a much larger organization, which he now heads under the Royalty Group.
This, he noted, was proof that great things can grow from small beginnings when handled with care and persistence.
He further highlighted the state government’s prudent management of resources, stating that Akwa Ibom has operated without borrowing for over two years.
According to him, this careful financial approach has made it possible to invest in critical initiatives like the EAP and the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre (DASAC), which are key to empowering citizens and boosting the state’s economy.
Earlier, in his opening remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Entrepreneurial Development and Director-General of Ibom LED, Mr. Ime Uwah, outlined the goals of the EAP. He revealed that the programme has successfully trained 1,200 entrepreneurs so far, with an additional 500 participants set to benefit in the fourth cohort.
Uwah also explained that Ibom LED follows up with participants after training to ensure their businesses grow and remain sustainable over time.
He also spoke about the formation of the Akwa Ibom Entrepreneurs Association, describing it as a body designed to unite and strengthen the state’s business community while aligning with Governor Eno’s vision for entrepreneurship development.
In his goodwill message, Pastor ImoAbasi Jacob, Team Lead of Ibom LED and Managing Director of the Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation (AKICORP), applauded the transformation of the once-neglected Ibom e-Library into a hub for business training.
He said the centre is now shaping modern business mindsets and providing global-level entrepreneurial skills to participants, with the support of an active alumni network.
Also speaking, Prof. Enoidem Usoroh, Rector of DASAC, praised Governor Eno for integrating graduates from his institution into the EAP. He described the partnership as a significant boost to skill development and job creation in the state.
The event featured the official inauguration of the Association of Akwa Ibom Entrepreneurs, with Mr. Ime Uwah announced as its pioneer president. Governor Eno expressed happiness at the development, noting that the association would be driven by entrepreneurs themselves. He also announced a N10 million grant to support the association’s activities.
The governor challenged the new association to register at least 10,000 business owners across the state. He emphasized that this would help create a strong mentorship network, promote entrepreneurship, and elevate the dignity of labor in Akwa Ibom State.
