By Chief Edet Isong
Publisher, Newsday Newspaper
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has challenged members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly to deepen their connection with the people by initiating constituency empowerment programmes and regular engagements that bring the dividends of democracy closer to the grassroots.
The Governor, represented by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, gave the charge on Thursday at the constituency briefing and empowerment programme organised by the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, at QIC Primary School, Abak Itenge, in Abak Local Government Area.
Governor Eno described the Speaker’s initiative as a shining example of responsive and accountable leadership, urging other lawmakers to emulate the gesture by sustaining regular interaction with their constituents and implementing programmes that directly improve the lives of the people.
He noted that true representation goes beyond legislative debates and lawmaking, stressing that elected officials must remain visible and accessible while ensuring that government policies and democratic dividends reach every community.
Speaking through the Deputy Governor, the Governor reiterated that the ARISE Agenda remains focused on people-centred governance, with sustained investments in healthcare, education, agriculture, transportation, rural infrastructure and human capital development.
“The government of Akwa Ibom State is committed to improving the welfare of its people. Our citizens must continue to experience the aroma of good governance through our bottom-to-top development strategy, which places the needs of the people at the centre of governance,” Eyakenyi stated.
Earlier, Speaker Udeme Otong said the constituency briefing was organised to render account of his stewardship while empowering constituents with tools and resources to enhance their economic well-being.
According to him, effective representation is measured not only by legislative performance but also by the positive impact made on the lives of the people through empowerment and sustainable development initiatives.
He disclosed that many of the beneficiaries were graduates of the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre, explaining that the empowerment package was designed to enable them establish viable businesses, become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy.
Otong added that although the programme was primarily for Abak State Constituency, beneficiaries were also drawn from neighbouring Etim Ekpo and Essien Udim Local Government Areas, reflecting his commitment to inclusive representation.
He urged beneficiaries to make productive use of the items received rather than dispose of them, describing the support as seed capital meant to create lasting economic opportunities.
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the Speaker for what they described as a life-changing intervention.
Mrs. Obot, an oil palm farmer who received a tricycle truck, said the vehicle would significantly reduce the cost of transporting her farm produce and improve her earnings.
Another beneficiary, Mfonobong Frank, who received a commercial bus, said the vehicle would provide him with a stable source of income and improve his family’s standard of living.
No fewer than 358 beneficiaries received empowerment items and business support valued at over ₦35 million. The items included three cars, 22 minibuses, 32 motorcycles, 13 tricycle trucks, 36 power generators, sewing and industrial sewing machines, barbing and hairdressing equipment, as well as cash grants for small-scale businesses.
The event attracted government officials, political leaders, traditional rulers, community stakeholders and residents, who commended the Speaker for promoting accountability and grassroots development through his constituency outreach programme.