…as Esit Eket receives 7,000 bags of Rice
By Emmanuel Ikpe
Residents from various wards in Esit Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State turned out in large numbers on Monday to receive free food items distributed by the state government under the fourth phase of the ARISE Food Security Programme.
The initiative aims to cushion the effects of economic hardship, enhance household food security, and improve the living conditions of vulnerable residents.
The exercise featured the distribution of 7,000 bags of food to beneficiaries drawn from communities across the local government area.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Hon. Emem Ibanga, representing Governor Umo Eno, said the intervention forms part of the administration’s commitment to providing relief to citizens and ensuring the dividends of governance reach the grassroots.
She noted that the ARISE Food Security Programme continues to impact lives across the state, adding that the governor remains dedicated to addressing the welfare needs of the people through targeted social intervention programmes.
Ibanga disclosed that over 217,000 bags of food have been distributed across the state since the commencement of the programme, describing the initiative as a reflection of Governor Eno’s compassionate leadership and people-oriented governance.
“The governor has brought about many positive changes in the state. This food distribution is one of the ways he is supporting families and helping to ease the burden of the current economic situation,” she said.
The Commissioner further announced that beneficiaries would receive additional support under the state’s social welfare programme, revealing that government officials will return on July 30 to distribute debit cards preloaded with ₦75,000 each to eligible individuals.
In her welcome address, the Chairman of Esit Eket Local Government Area, Hon. Uduak Ikemesit Ikot, commended Governor Eno for sustaining initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of residents, describing him as a compassionate leader sensitive to the needs and plight of the people.
She said the food distribution demonstrated the governor’s resolve to alleviate hardship and support vulnerable households across the state.
According to her, the presence of the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and the General Manager of the state’s food intervention agency, Mr. Unyime Etim, underscored the governor’s determination to ensure government programmes directly benefit people at the grassroots level.
The chairman pledged the continued support of the people of Esit Eket for Governor Eno’s administration and expressed confidence in his leadership ahead of the 2027 elections.
“We are happy with what Governor Eno is doing for our people. Esit Eket will continue to support him because his administration has brought visible development and hope to the grassroots,” she said.
Speaking with journalists at the event, a beneficiary, Mmayene Sunday from Ward 6, expressed gratitude to Governor Umo Eno for the food distribution programme, describing it as a timely intervention that provides relief to many families struggling with the rising cost of living.
Similarly, another beneficiary, Eno Joseph, praised the governor for his compassionate, people-centred leadership, adding that the food distribution is evidence of an administration that listens to its citizens.
The exercise in Esit Eket marks the seventh local government area to benefit from the fourth phase of the ARISE Food Security Programme since its launch across the state. Other LGAs are scheduled for upcoming distributions as the state government continues its food intervention efforts.