By Uwem Offon, Uyo
Chairman of Eastern Obolo in Akwai Ibom State, Samuel Nteogwuija, has flagged-off a N31.5 million Skills Acquisition Training and Business Grant Scheme under the Unifier First Batch, benefiting 60 youths and 10 women across the local government area.
Speaking during the official launch, the council chairman commended the State Governor, Pst. Umo Eno, for granting local government chairmen the autonomy to lead and manage their councils effectively.
“As a local government chairman, I have benefited immensely from His Excellency, the Governor. He has graciously allowed us to operate independently and serve our people diligently by providing the necessary support,” he stated.
Nteogwuija explained that upon assumption of office seven months ago, he made a firm commitment to prioritize youth empowerment, especially after observing a manpower gap among companies operating within the area.
“When I came on board, I promised my youths, who are my primary constituency, that I would invest in capacity building rather than just giving handouts. Today, that promise is taking shape. We have selected interested youths from across the ten wards to be trained in various skill areas including truck driving, excavator operation, crane handling, bulldozer operation, catering, security, and forklift handling,” he revealed.
The chairman further disclosed that the initiative was made possible through personal sacrifices and prudent financial management.
“It’s a passion-driven project, not because I had excess funds, but because of the promise I made. Through consistent savings over the past few months, I was able to raise N31,550,000.00 for this first batch. This covers the full training of 60 youths as well as business grants for 10 women drawn from all ten wards.”
Some beneficiaries expressed deep appreciation for what they described as a life-changing opportunity.
Mr Eli from Okopedi, a forklift operator, said, “I’m so happy to be part of this empowerment. I intend to use this opportunity wisely. I sincerely thank the chairman for his great leadership.”
Another beneficiary, Matthias from Amadaka Town added, “I’m grateful to be a beneficiary of this program. I promise to make the best of it, make my chairman proud, and inspire other young people in Eastern Obolo.”
Also speaking, Pastor Sylvanus Okafia, a clergyman, described the initiative as exemplary:
“The selection and empowerment process is commendable. We used to see this kind of initiative in Uyo, but today, it has reached Eastern Obolo. I must commend the chairman, he has gone beyond our expectations. Many of us were unsure if he would take the right path or follow the traditional route, but he has proven himself.
“Things used to be bad here, especially during the oil spill crises, but today, we are seeing real change. The presence of both religious and traditional leaders here today is a testament to how inclusive and impactful this initiative is. The chairman has united us and empowered our children.”
The flag-off marks the beginning of a robust empowerment drive by the Samuel Nteogwuija-led administration in Eastern Obollo LGA, with more batches and initiatives expected in the coming months.
