EMOIMEE launches over N100M empowerment program to curb hardship in Akwa Ibom 

By: Theresa Donatus, Uyo.

The NNPC/MPN JV EMOIMEE Host Community Development Trust Fund has flagged off over N100 million in economic empowerment for 200 indigenes in Akwa Ibom State. 

Speaking during the official flagged off in Ikot Ekong, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, Engr. Sunny Udo, the council’s representative of the Board of Trustees expressed optimism that the program would serve as a catalyst for job creation in the region, especially for the youth. 

He explained that participants in the initiative would be trained in various agro-business sectors, such as fishery, poultry, and piggery, and would each receive a financial grant of ₦500,000 to start/ boost their businesses.

“EMOIMEE is here to stay and transform Mkpat Enin, We are committed to training the youth in various entrepreneurial skills, equipping them with the resources needed to create sustainable businesses and employment for others,” said Udo

It was gathered that the program’s impact is already being felt through previous initiatives, including the awarding of scholarships to 74 Indigenous students, a large-scale medical outreach that benefited over 2,000 people, and the provision of solar-powered street lights and fishing boats to enhance local infrastructure. 

Udo further noted that ongoing projects are focused on small business training and improving the quality of education through teacher training and recruitment.

The traditional ruler of Mkpat Enin, HRM Edidem Akpan Akpan Ekpene, who was represented by the village head of Ikot Ekong, Eteidung Raymond Udia, commended the program for its transparency and for prioritizing the welfare of the community.

“We are witnessing a transformation in Mkpat Enin, and it is encouraging to see such impactful initiatives taking place here,” said Udia.

Udia also advised beneficiaries to use the financial support for business purposes, urging them not to divert funds for personal indulgences. “This is an opportunity to invest in yourself and your future. Use the money wisely to create jobs and improve your livelihoods,” he said.

Secretary to the Mkpat Enin Local Government Council, Aniedi Ekanem, lauded the initiative, emphasizing that it aligned with the vision of the state government. “The EMOIMEE program is a vital intervention that will help our people overcome economic hardships and move toward sustainable growth,” Ekanem said.

Rev. Obot Ekanem, a member of the Trust’s Management Committee, listed out the success of the program, sharing that 20 tricycles had been distributed to local youths, with beneficiaries already using them to run profitable businesses.

“EMOIMEE is making a real difference,” Ekanem noted. “We are providing support directly to the people, ensuring that they have the tools they need to succeed.”

Beneficiaries of the program, such as Mr. Usenobong Donatus, and Imaobong Okon Akpan, expressed their gratitude for the opportunity. “This initiative is a game-changer. It’s giving us the tools and financial support we need to pursue our dreams and create businesses,” said Okon Akpan.

Elder Ifiok Ekanem, the NUT Chairman of Mkpat Enin, also praised the teacher training aspect of the program, noting that it addressed long-standing concerns over staffing shortages in local schools. “This is a much-needed step in the right direction. We appreciate EMOIMEE for addressing these challenges,” he said.

Prof. Etete Peters, the immediate past Chief Medical Director of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, expressed confidence that the initiative would empower Mkpat Enin indigenes, helping them to become employers of labor and contributing to the overall development of the region.

“This program is not just about providing financial aid; it’s about building sustainable businesses that will support the community for years to come,” Peters remarked.

EMOIMEE, a community-focused initiative covering the oil-producing areas of Eket, Mkpat Enin, Onna, Ikot Abasi, Mbo, Esit Eket, and Eastern Obolo, was established by ExxonMobil and is now managed by Seplat Energy. 

As the program continues, further batches of beneficiaries are expected to join the initiative, which aims to address the socio-economic challenges of the region while fostering sustainable development.