By Solomon Okpo.
The Abak Township Stadium came alive on Saturday, March 8, 2025, as the people of Abak, Etim Ekpo, and Ika Federal Constituency welcomed Governor Umo Eno and his team for the launch of the statewide ARISE Town Hall Meeting and Empowerment Series. The event, filled with energy, music, and cultural displays, marked a major milestone in the administration’s commitment to grassroots engagement and inclusive governance.
More than a ceremonial gathering, the town hall provided an opportunity for the Governor to present his performance scorecard, nearly two years into office, while also receiving direct feedback from constituents through their NEEDS document, a crucial input for the development of the 2026 People’s Budget. Governor Eno reaffirmed his vision of taking governance beyond urban centers, ensuring that rural communities actively participate in decision-making and benefit from government interventions.
A key highlight of the event was the launch of the ₦4 billion empowerment grant scheme for small businesses, an initiative designed to uplift entrepreneurs, farmers, and artisans. Over 620 beneficiaries received financial support, ranging from ₦150,000 to ₦5,000,000, to boost their enterprises. Notably, six individuals secured ₦5 million each, while 178 farmers received ₦500,000 through the ARISE Farmers Grant. Additionally, 442 small business owners received grants between ₦150,000 and ₦700,000, further strengthening economic activities in the constituency.
To promote skilled trades, 198 artisans, including tailors, welders, vulcanizers, and hairdressers, were equipped with essential tools to enhance productivity. This strategic empowerment aligns with the ARISE Agenda, which prioritizes economic growth, community development, and people-centered governance.
Governor Eno underscored his administration’s resolve to deepen grassroots participation in governance, emphasizing that the ARISE Town Hall Meeting would be extended to all ten federal constituencies in the state. He assured constituents that their concerns and aspirations would be directly reflected in government policies and programs.
A moment of political significance emerged as leaders and stakeholders from the constituency, including the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, and former Deputy Governor Moses Ekpo, declared their endorsement of Governor Eno for a second term (2027–2031).
As dusk settled, attendees departed with renewed optimism, knowing that the Governor’s commitment to empowerment and engagement was not just a campaign promise but a living reality.
With the ARISE Agenda as a guiding framework, the people of Akwa Ibom stand poised to shape a future where governance truly belongs to them.
