The senator representing Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Aniekan Bassey has expressed his delight at the opportunity given to him by his people to train sons and daughters of the senatorial district in various agro-businesses.
He spoke at a two-day training event to support the trainees and disbursed grants worth over N50 million to enhance their entry into agribusiness.
In a statement made available to journalists, yesterday, in Abuja, Bassey said the training, which was held at the Senatorial District Liaison Office, Uyo, under the theme: “Engaging in Modern Farming Practice for Sustainable Economic Development,” was a significant stride toward enhancing agricultural development and economic empowerment.
Addressing the trainees, he emphasised the importance of agriculture as a cornerstone of sustainable development and further noted that modern farming practices not only guarantee food security but also create employment opportunities and enhance wealth creation.
“My agro-empowerment initiative aligns with Governor Umo Eno ARISE Agenda’s blueprint of empowering the youth and promoting economic self-reliance within the Akwa Ibom State,” he said.
A friend of the senator, Hon. Monday Eyo, chaired the event and also assisted him to present cheques to beneficiaries at the end of the event.
In their responses, the participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting how the training has equipped them with practical skills and knowledge to thrive in modern agro-businesses.
They also appreciated the financial support provided by the grants, noting it as a critical stepping stone toward realising their entrepreneurial aspirations.
Resource persons at the training were Dr. Ekwe Eberechukwu of the Department of Entrepreneurship Education, Alvan Ikoku University of Education Owerri; the State Manager of the Bank of Industry, Mr. Pius Nneji and Mr. Sampson Nsimoh Michael of the Federal College of Agriculture, Ishiagu, Ebonyi State.
The beneficiaries included Sunday Monday Bob, Ndifreke Edet Uwah, Kufre Nyong Akra, Ubon Ekanem, John Etim Udokang, Joseph Peter, Udeme Ubom, Emmanuel Okon Abel, Godwin Michael Ukpe, Uduak Batholemew, Ndifreke Inwang, Leo Etim Okokon, Aniekan Emmanuel Essien, Emmanuel Effiom Akpan, Brendan Akrah, Mercy Okon Etim, Emmanuel Okono, Ntiekime Festus Umoh, David Gospel Aniefiok, Unyime Monday Udourom, Idorenyin Kufre, Ndifreke Eka, Imaobong Flourish, Comfort Udo, Iniobong Uwem, Ima-Obong John Effiong, Christiana Fred, and Inemesit Etim ,Ukeme Tom, Uduak Okokon among others.
