By Mfonobong Ukpong|The Evangelist news
The Akwa Ibom State Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening partnerships with development-focused organizations as it prepares to expand its flagship food support initiative to reach more vulnerable households.
Speaking in Uyo on Monday while receiving a delegation from Helen Keller International, the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, affirmed the administration’s readiness to collaborate with credible partners working to uplift rural communities.
He disclosed that over 500,000 households across the 31 Local Government Areas have so far benefited from the first and second phases of the ARISE Free Food Distribution Programme, a key component of Governor Umo Eno’s drive for food security and social welfare. Preparations, he said, are in advanced stages for the next phase, which will feature the deployment of two mobile distribution trucks to boost logistics and ensure wider reach.
“Governor Umo Eno is very receptive to development partners. The ARISE Agenda is strategically crafted around five pillars and 17 focal areas, including rural development, education, healthcare, nutrition, and poverty reduction. These align seamlessly with your organizational goals,” Umanah stated.
The Commissioner commended Helen Keller International for its enduring contributions to nutrition and public health in Nigeria, assuring the delegation of the government’s openness to long-term collaboration.
In his remarks, Mr. Aliyu Mohammed, Country Director of Helen Keller International, said the organization has been active in Nigeria since 1999 and remains committed to removing barriers to nutrition and healthcare across communities. He expressed optimism about potential areas of synergy with the Akwa Ibom State Government.
Representing the Permanent Secretary, Mr. James Edet, who is currently out of the country, Director of Information and Public Communications, Mr. Aniekan Ukpong, appreciated Helen Keller International for its interest in working with the Ministry of Information.
The visit, which underscores the growing role of strategic partnerships in public policy execution, was attended by several Directors from the Ministry.
