Governor Umo Eno has taken a bold step toward deepening participatory governance in Akwa Ibom State by launching the first-ever non-elective Town Hall meeting, which was held at the Abak Federal Constituency on March 8, 2025.
The event, which brought together stakeholders from Abak, Etim Ekpo, and Ika Local Government Areas, served as a platform for the Governor to present his administration’s scorecard, listen to citizens’ concerns, and outline plans for further development.
During the meeting, Governor Eno announced the disbursement of a ₦2 billion grant to farmers across the state, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector.
Additionally, six entrepreneurs each received ₦5 million in business support grants, while 178 farmers were awarded ₦500,000 each through the ARISE Farmers Grant. Another 442 individuals received grants ranging from ₦150,000 to ₦700,000, all aimed at stimulating grassroots economic growth.
Stakeholders at the event presented 22 documented requests to the Governor for consideration, highlighting pressing needs in areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
Governor Eno reiterated his administration’s resolve to fulfill campaign promises, stating, “We came to serve our people, to use the resources available to us to do the most for our people, and we ask you to continue to support our efforts so we may extend the frontiers of development.”
The Town Hall meeting signified a shift towards a more transparent and people-centered governance model, marking a major milestone in the state’s democratic process.
