NDE Empowers Akwa Ibom Traders With New Market Shops

TUESDAY April 8, 2025 |
By thenewsdesk.ng

The National Directorate of Employment (NDE), weekend empowered traders in Akwa Ibom with new market shops to promote economic growth and reduce unemployment.

The director-general of NDE, Mr. Silas Ali Agara, commissioned the four lock-up shops in Urua Ikpe Annang (Affiong Etor) market square in Essien Udim local government area of the state.

He reiterated the agency’s commitment to providing employment opportunities and fostering self-reliance among Nigerians, particularly the youth and vulnerable groups.

The DG, represented by the South-south zonal coordinator, Mr. Jinanwa Chukwuma, stated that similar projects are being commissioned in five other states across the country.

He added that the initiative aligns with the federal government’s vision of promoting economic growth through skills development, entrepreneurship, and infrastructure provision critical to sustainable development, especially in rural communities.

“Through this project, numerous individuals in Affiong Etor market and its environs will gain access to commercial activities within the market thus enhancing their businesses and improving their income.”

Agara expressed gratitude to the governor of Akwa Ibom state, Pastor Umo Eno, and the entire Ikpe Annang community for their support.

He stated the importance of inter-governmental synergy in driving development and encouraged the benefiting community to utilise the facility effectively.

State coordinator of NDE, Mrs. Uduak Essien, commended the chairman of Essien Udim L.G.A, Mr. Ntiedo Usoro, and other community stakeholders for their collaborative efforts, which led to the project’s completion.

She appealed to the end users to ensure the stores serve their intended purpose of boosting local trade, enhancing livelihoods, and fostering economic prosperity in the area.

The Essien Udim council chairman, Usoro, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Uduak Isobara, commended the federal government through NDE for making Akwa Ibom one of the project’s beneficiaries.

He promised to protect the structure from vandalism and ensure it is put to good use.

The Rivers state coordinator of NDE, Mrs. Maureen Okeji, commended the federal government for being sensitive to Nigerians’ plight, appealing that the project be put to appropriate use to attract more projects to the area.