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A resilient, physically challenged entrepreneur, Mr. Jones Okon Akpan, hailing from Akwa Ibom State, received a significant boost along with 779 others as they were collectively awarded a N400 million business grant by the state government.
This generous grant was part of the Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program spearheaded by Governor Umo Eno.
During a heartfelt event at the Government House Banquet Hall in Uyo, the governor not only distributed grants to beneficiaries but also provided essential support to Mr. Akpan, who faces physical challenges.
Governor Eno stressed in his statement the importance of beneficiaries’ roles as representatives of the Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme and encouraged them to focus on their businesses and avoid getting involved in politics during his speech to them.
He said, “I would like to say clearly here that whether this program will continue or not depends on you because you are the ambassadors of this program.” You are not all totally new to business or entrepreneurship. I am not concerned about the little seed that’ll be put in your hands, but about the training you’ve received.”
“Everything you need to succeed is in your hands. For now, don’t be politicians; just be entrepreneurs. This is an opportunity for you to have a primary address. If you have a primary address, politics is secondary.” Eno said.
“People will respect you for what you can do. This little money is a seed, and if you plant it well, It will bring a mighty harvest. I remember that, in this state, I opened my hotel with just five rooms, and a few years later, we had grown exponentially.
“The first thing is that you must make up your mind to succeed, and in that determination, there will be a place of sacrifice and self-denial. People will tell you all manner of things; don’t mind them. Your time will soon arrive. Above all, this community has been created; stay around the community and don’t try to impress people. As a government, we’ll continue to support you. This is just the beginning.
“I have directed that Mr. Jones Okon Akpan of Jones Manufacturing be given a good means of mobility as well as additional support,” the governor said.
Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurship Development’s team lead, Imoabasi Jacob, praised the governor for supporting local businesses and foreseeing positive outcomes with proper training.
During the event, Nnena Ugwu of Pan-Atlantic University emphasized discipline and focus for success, while Chief Assam Assam SAN lauded the governor’s commitment to his promises and urged beneficiaries to leverage the grants for global entrepreneurship.
Grateful beneficiaries, including Mrs. Ekaette Umoh and Daniel Esetang, pledged to use the funds responsibly for business expansion and the state’s benefit.
In January, Governor Eno promised to boost the state’s economy by encouraging entrepreneurship and building an international market in Ikot Ekpene.
This market aims to make raw materials more accessible, saving local entrepreneurs from having to travel outside the state for supplies.
