Women traders from the 31 Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State, under the auspices of Akwa Ibom Women Traders Forum, have expressed gratitude to Governor Umo Eno for the N1.5bn interest-free loan that he instituted for traders in the state, describing it as a catalyst that will boost their businesses to greater heights, and applauded his administration’s empowerment initiatives and developmental strides.
They made the declaration on Friday, September 6, 2024, during an enlarged meeting of the forum held at the Women Development Centre, Uyo.
In her remarks, the President of the group, Obonganwan Magdalene Udom, said the group came together to appreciate Governor Umo Eno for his numerous policies that have positively impacted their businesses and lives, especially the interest-free loan for traders in the State.
The meeting, which had in attendance women from various trade groups and associations, also provided an opportunity for Obonganwan Magdalene Udom, who doubles as Board Member, Health Insurance Agency of the State, to present the group’s leadership across the three Senatorial Districts to the dignitaries while expressing their gratitude for the Governor’s commitment to their welfare and progress.
On his part, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Market Matters, Akparawa Idorenyin Raphael, said he was happy to associate himself with the leadership of market women in the State. He applauded the Governor for his traders’ friendly disposition and leadership style.
The Governor’s Aide appreciated the women for the support he has enjoyed so far and for organising themselves under the forum and assured them that Governor Umo Eno has good intentions for market women.
The SSA lauded the Governor for his gender sensitivity and urged the women to take advantage of the interest-free loan provided by the Governor to better their businesses.
Raphael added that traders have unanimously resolved to support Governor Umo Eno’s administration for eight years and assured that they are solidly behind him till 2031.
In a goodwill message, the Honourary Special Adviser to the Governor on Agricultural Development, Rt. Hon. (Mrs) Owoidoho Ekpoatai, lauded the Governor for his various people-oriented initiatives, including the interest-free loan to traders, which she said is intended to make life better for traders in the state, and urged the women to key into the ARISE Agenda of the current administration.
Also speaking, the former Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet, applauded Governor Umo Eno’s developmental efforts in the state, particularly his passion for the downtrodden.
She commended market women for their steadfastness and dedication, urging them to continue supporting the administration.
“We must support the government of Pastor Umo Eno because he cares for market women,” she said.
Describing the interest-free loan as a catalyst that will boost their businesses, she urged them to expedite action so they could access the loan, emphasising that they must administer the same diligently so as to be able to pay back.
The well-attended event featured goodwill messages, presentation of the group leadership, cash donation in support of the forum, and unanimous declaration of support for Governor Umo Eno’s administration.
