A'IBOM FINANCE COMMISSIONER, WIFE FATE, EMPOWERS ONNA INDIGENES WITH BUSINESS SUPPORT GRANTS AT YULETIDE
BY Imoh Essien (Uyo)
Indigenes of ONNA Local Government Area on Wednesday December 31, were treated to a Christmas and New Year's eve celebration and empowerment programme organised by the Commissioner for Finance and Supervising Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport, Mr. Emem Bob and wife, Iniobong as part of efforts to spread goodwill and support to the people of ONNA during the festive season.
At the event, 1,400 bags of rice were distributed across the 42 villages in Onna. In addition, three million naira business support grants were presented to 15 beneficiaries, one from each of the 15 political wards in the Local Government, who went home with 200,000 thousand naira, per beneficiary. Also, cash support went to women, men, youths, traditional fathers and the party in the spirit of the season.
Also highlighting the occasion was the donation of cash, wrappers and bags of rice to over 200 widows, an initiative led by the commissioner’s wife, Mrs. Iniobong Bob, to cushion the effects of economic hardship on widows in the area.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Bob, flanked by his wife, Iniobong, noted that the gesture was the dividend of good governance, made possible by Governor Umo Eno, stating that the current administration remains committed to inclusive development.
He said Akwa Ibom State is united in support of President Bola Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno and the Senate President ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Also highlighting the occasion was the donation of cash, wrappers and bags of rice to over 200 widows, an initiative led by the commissioner’s wife, Mrs. Iniobong Bob, to cushion the effects of economic hardship on widows in the area.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Bob, flanked by his wife, Iniobong, noted that the gesture was the dividend of good governance, made possible by Governor Umo Eno, stating that the current administration remains committed to inclusive development.
He said Akwa Ibom State is united in support of President Bola Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno and the Senate President ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The commissioner further explained that Governor Umo Eno has deliberately prioritised rural development, particularly through the ARISE Compassionate homes also focus on opening up rural communities with access roads, describing the empowerment programme as a reflection of the governor’s generosity and a demonstration of love in the spirit of the season.
The Chairman of Onna Local Government, Mr Kufre Umoren who was represented by the Secretary of the Council, Architect Mfon Akpabio , expressed belief in a united Akwa Ibom State and brotherhood beyond party lines, commending Mr. Bob for what he described as an effective representation of the area at the state executive level.
Setting the tone for the event, Obongiwad Etieneobong Bob praised the commissioner for following the example of Governor Umo Eno, also commended the show of love extended to the people.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the wife of the Paramount Ruler of Onna, HRM Nwaowo Raymond Inyang, Clan Head of Asuna Nung Oku, Ettebom Itiat Itiat, Managing Director of the South South Development Commission, Usoro Akpabio, Barr. Akaninyene Idem and others who applauded Governor Umo Eno for having the interest of Onna people at heart and for appointing their son into the State Executive Council. The speakers pledged continued support for the governor and offered prayers for divine blessings upon him, the commissioner and their families.
Some beneficiaries of the empowerment programme expressed gratitude for the gesture, pledging their support for Governor Umo Eno in 2027 and called for the retention of Mr. Emem Bob in the State Executive Council in the governor’s second term.
The event was enlivened by a musical performance from a foremost entertainer, Pastor Goddy Goddy, who thrilled the audience to a dance.
