LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – socio-cultural organisation, Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, has urged the Akwa Ibom State Government to ensure transparency and fairness in the implementation of its N31bn economic empowerment fund.
The organisation made the call in a statement issued by its International Public Relations Officer, Idongesit Ikono, in Uyo on Tuesday.
The state government recently released N31bn to empower youths, women, traders, farmers, transport operators and petty traders across the state.
Ikono urged the implementation committee to remain committed to the objectives of the programme and ensure that deserving beneficiaries were selected through a transparent process.
“We expect the implementation to be guided strictly by merit, fairness and equity. It should ensure that genuine beneficiaries are identified through an open and verifiable process.
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“It is our expectation that the process will be completely free from partisan politics, favouritism and undue influence,” he said.
The MMI spokesman said the allocation of N1bn to each local government area demonstrated what he described as the Eno administration’s commitment to grassroots development, social inclusion and shared prosperity.
He described the release of the fund as a practical demonstration of purposeful leadership and commitment to the wellbeing of the people.
Ikono said the empowerment programme’s focus on skills acquisition for youths and women was also commendable.
“As an organisation, we are happy that the empowerment programme also targets skills acquisition for youths and women.
“With an estimated 165,912 beneficiaries, this intervention can deepen entrepreneurship, stimulate local enterprise, enhance agricultural productivity and create sustainable employment,” he said.
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According to him, the intervention would inject fresh momentum into the state’s economy, strengthen small businesses and expand agricultural production.
He urged the beneficiaries to embrace the opportunity responsibly and not regard it as an avenue to share public funds.
Ikono also expressed the organisation’s commitment to supporting policies and programmes aimed at improving the welfare of Akwa Ibom residents.
(NAN)
