Last weekend, the Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem officially launched the One Billion Naira Family-based Business Grant Empowerment Initiative in Ukanafun and Oruk Anam local government areas, signalling the start of a comprehensive selection process across the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency.
Held at Central School, Ikot Akpa Nkuk for Ukanafun and Mini Stadium, Ikot Ibritam for Oruk Anam, the event attracted traditional leaders, political officials, and community stakeholders committed to supporting entrepreneurship and economic growth.
Hon. Idem outlined his vision to create millionaires from every family in the constituency within the coming years. “Not everyone will work in government, but many aspire to establish or expand businesses. This initiative is designed to foster that ambition,” he said. The programme intends to empower 5,000 people and is part of his broader human capacity development goals.
He urged Ward Coordinators and all involved in the selection process to ensure transparency, fairness, and adherence to the published guidelines. “My aim is to empower those who otherwise would have no opportunity. Cooperation from traditional rulers and community heads is essential to achieve a seamless exercise,” he added.
The Chairman of the Central Planning Committee praised Hon. Idem’s dedication and vowed that the committee would operate with utmost transparency. Other dignitaries present included local government chairmen Prince Uyoh Ukpanah (Ukanafun) and Hon. Sunday Festus Akpan (Oruk Anam), alongside elected representatives and party officials.
Paramount rulers HRM Akuku Engr. Amos Akpan and HRM Akuku Engr. J.J. Obosi expressed gratitude, describing the initiative as the first of its kind in the federal constituency and prayed for continued support and blessings.
With this landmark initiative, Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem has set a precedent for grassroots economic empowerment, promising to transform thousands of family businesses across Ukanafun and Oruk Anam.
