Akwa Ibom Government Disburses N335 Million to Farmers, Entrepreneurs in Oron
In a significant move to empower farmers and entrepreneurs, the Akwa Ibom State Government has disbursed a total of N335 million to support the agricultural and entrepreneurial sectors in Oron, a coastal town in the southern part of the state. The disbursement is part of the government’s ongoing effort to foster economic growth and improve livelihoods through targeted financial assistance.
Empowering Local Farmers and Entrepreneurs
The funds were allocated to both individual farmers and small businesses to enhance productivity, stimulate local economic activity, and increase opportunities for sustainable income. The initiative is designed to target the backbone of Akwa Ibom’s rural economy—agriculture and entrepreneurship—while addressing pressing challenges such as limited access to funding, infrastructure, and markets.
In a statement, the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel, highlighted that the disbursement is part of the government’s commitment to ensuring economic development across the state, particularly in rural areas. The Governor emphasized the importance of agriculture in providing jobs, boosting food security, and promoting local industries.
Focus on Sustainable Agriculture
A significant portion of the disbursed funds is earmarked for the agricultural sector, supporting farmers in Oron who are engaged in crop production, fishing, and livestock farming. The financial boost is expected to provide essential resources such as seeds, fertilizers, equipment, and tools that will enable farmers to increase their yield and improve their farming practices.
Farmers who received the grants expressed their gratitude, with many stating that the assistance would go a long way in enhancing the productivity of their farms and addressing food shortages in the region. Nse Ntuk, a local farmer who benefited from the program, shared, “This is a much-needed lifeline for us. With the right tools and resources, we can improve the quality and quantity of our produce. It will not only help our families but also contribute to the overall food supply of Akwa Ibom.”
Boosting Local Entrepreneurs
In addition to supporting agriculture, the government has also provided funding to local entrepreneurs, particularly those in small businesses and artisanal trades. The grants are expected to help small-scale enterprises, such as food processing, local manufacturing, and crafts, to grow and reach new markets.
For small business owners like Ekaette Ekong, a fashion designer and entrepreneur from Oron, the disbursement is a game-changer. “This funding will enable me to expand my business and hire more workers, which is a huge step forward. I’m grateful for this opportunity and the state government’s commitment to empowering us,” Ekong said.
A Step Towards Economic Diversification
Governor Udom Emmanuel noted that this financial assistance is part of a broader strategy to diversify Akwa Ibom’s economy away from oil dependency by investing in agriculture, tourism, and small businesses. With the ongoing global shift towards sustainability, local resource development, and innovation, the state government is keen on creating a more resilient economy that can withstand global economic fluctuations.
He also underscored the role of youth in driving the success of this initiative, encouraging young people in Oron and across the state to take advantage of available support programs and contribute to the economic prosperity of the region.
A Bright Future for Oron
As the funds continue to flow into the hands of farmers and entrepreneurs, there is a sense of optimism among the people of Oron. With improved access to resources and better opportunities, the hope is that these sectors will experience growth and contribute to long-term prosperity.
Local authorities have also promised to monitor the use of the funds to ensure accountability and ensure that the intended impact is achieved. The Akwa Ibom government’s move to support farmers and small businesses is seen as a step in the right direction toward strengthening the local economy and improving the livelihoods of the people in Oron and beyond.
In the coming months, the government plans to expand its support to other areas within the state, creating a more equitable distribution of resources and fostering a climate conducive to business growth and agricultural development. The hope is that this initiative will serve as a model for other states to emulate in order to enhance local economies across Nigeria.
