By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
A member of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Mr Moses Essien, has floated a Six Million Naira apprenticeship programme for 61 youths drawn from all the wards in his Ibiono Ibom constituency.
He has also presented one million, one hundred and thirty thousand Naira financial support to 113 Ibiono Ibom students studying in various institutions of higher learning across the country.
Essien, who chairs the House Committees on Health, and Nutrition and Food Security made the donation during the 2024 summit of the Ibiono Ibom Youth for Democracy and Development, IBIYODED, held at Ikpa Pavilion.
The lawmaker stated that the apprenticeship scheme was in fulfilment of his campaign promises and a mark of appreciation for the level of support he has received from members of the constituency.
He reasoned that the empowerment programme, which was initiated in line with the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno, would provide the beneficiaries with the requisite skills and knowledge for self-reliance and job creation opportunities.
Essien, a pioneer National President of the youth group, charged the beneficiaries to commit themselves to the training schedules and modules of the programme in order to maximise the benefits of the scheme.
He noted that, “the grant will provide financial assistance to the beneficiaries and also their quest for quality education and to achieve academic goals.”
Chairman on Ibiono Ibom Local Council, Mr Asuakak Umoh, lauded the lawmaker for initiating the programme, which he reasoned was a demonstration of his commitment to the welfare and development of his constituents and pledged the council’s support to the programme with the sum of five hundred thousand Naira.
International president of IBIYODED, Comrade Godwin Asanga said the group has played a key role in fostering unity, progress, development and peaceful coexistence amongst the various groups in Ibiono Ibom.
Asanga commended Eno for his approval for the award of contract for the construction of Nsai Use-Use Ikot Amama-Ikot Esifa road and other projects in the area.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries of the programme, Etimbuk Solomon expressed gratitude to the lawmaker for sponsoring the programme which he noted would assist Ibiono Ibom youths in accquring vocational skills needed for today’s economy.
Solomon assured that the beneficiaries would take advantage of the opportunities offered by the scheme.
