Shettima Launches ₦1bn Family Business Grant in Akwa Ibom, Vows Grassroots Economic Empowerment
Ukanafun/Oruk Anam, Akwa Ibom — Vice President Kashim Shettima on Saturday inaugurated a ₦1 billion family-based business grant initiative in Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, describing the programme as a model for translating democratic promises into tangible economic empowerment at the grassroots level.
Speaking at the launch of the Renewed Hope/ARISE Agenda grant programme, VP Shettima emphasized that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to interventions that directly uplift households, stimulate inclusive growth, and strengthen local economies.
“There is greater honour in empowering a man to create than in offering him a fleeting gift. True empowerment endures because it teaches the mind to search for its own doors, its own pathways, and its own opportunities,” the Vice President said.
The initiative, championed by Hon. Unyime Idem, the member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam in the House of Representatives, provides seed capital directly to families to establish or expand small enterprises. VP Shettima highlighted that the programme embodies the Renewed Hope Agenda’s priorities—economic empowerment, job creation, SME support, poverty reduction, and expanded social protection.
He noted, “Democracy finds its true essence not in speeches but in interventions that touch the lives of ordinary people in extraordinary ways. This programme ensures that the dividends of governance reach families at the grassroots, uplift communities, and expand opportunities for all.”
VP Shettima lauded the collaboration between federal and state governments, acknowledging Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, which focuses on agricultural expansion, rural development, SME support, and social inclusion. “When leadership aligns in purpose, the people inherit progress,” he said.
He stressed that the family-based approach would strengthen local enterprises, increase household incomes, empower women and youth, reduce dependency, and enhance productivity and self-reliance. “When a family is empowered, a community is empowered; when a community is empowered, a nation is strengthened,” he added.
The Vice President urged beneficiaries to invest the seed capital wisely, assuring that subsequent distributions would accommodate all constituents. He also praised Hon. Unyime Idem for initiating the programme, calling it a template for public office holders nationwide.
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Earlier, Deputy Governor Senator (Dr.) Akon Eyakenyi welcomed VP Shettima, highlighting his frequent visits to Akwa Ibom as a testament to his commitment to the state’s development. Beneficiaries, he noted, were urged to utilize the funds to grow their businesses and contribute to the local economy.
Hon. Unyime Idem confirmed that 3,000 families benefited from the transparent distribution process, linking the initiative to both the federal Renewed Hope Agenda and the state’s ARISE Agenda. He further expressed confidence that the programme would reinforce support for President Tinubu’s second-term bid in 2027.
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