Governor Umo Eno has disbursed N750 million business grants to no fewer than 15,000 unemployed youths across the 31 local government areas of Akwa Ibom State to cushion the effects of the prevailing socio-economic challenges.
This innovative programme, it was learnt, provides N50,000 monthly grants to 5,000 beneficiaries, with plans to expand the initiative to a total of 60,000 youths across the state.
Speaking during the official presentation of the grants at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo, Governor Eno described the initiative as a cornerstone of his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and capacity building.
He urged the beneficiaries to utilise the grants for productive ventures that will enhance their personal growth and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy, even as he reaffirmed his administration’s focus on creating opportunities that enable youths to thrive and unlock their full potentials.
“This programme is part of a broader charter to highlight and support the immense talent and resilience of Akwa Ibom youths,” he explained.
Governor Eno also announced plans for civil service recruitment, set to commence soon through the State Youth Employment Portal (YEP).
He, therefore, encouraged youths to register on the portal, which has been designed to simplify access to jobs and other employment-related initiatives, underscoring his administration’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity in public service recruitment.