The governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, revealed a food security program for vulnerable residents on Tuesday.
He also disclosed a N1.5bn interest-free loan program for all traders in the state, with N500m allocated for traders in each of the three senatorial districts.
Speaking at the launch of the program at the Itam Market in the Itu Local Government Area, the governor stressed his commitment to helping the less privileged and pledged to develop policies to uplift them.
He stated that the traders’ credit facilities will be provided through the state-owned Ibom Fadama Micro Finance Bank and encouraged traders to open accounts there.
The governor stated, “I've heard that high-interest loans taken by market vendors lead to high product prices due to difficulties in repayment.
“We are providing interest-free loans of N500m to each senatorial district market.
“The funds will be deposited into the Ibom FADAMA Micro Finance Bank. Therefore, every business person must open an account with them.
“This is applicable to all. There's no such thing as a portfolio marketer. Individuals must have active stalls and work with the SAs and Market Union.”
He mentioned that this approach will ensure effective monitoring and implementation of the various programs for traders in the state.
The governor mentioned that the Bulk Purchase Agency, the core of the program, aims to reduce and stabilize food prices in the state.
He urged his aides to prioritize transparency and accountability in the process.
Eno revealed plans to establish an agriculture committee to oversee the program's implementation across the state.
He added, “No one should assume they can duplicate these vouchers.
“These vouchers are produced by the Nigeria Printing and Minting Company and replication is a punishable offense.
“Once you receive the voucher, you'll be provided with the allotted food. Each voucher entitles you to 5kg of garri, 5kg of rice, and 5kg of beans.
“There is no possibility of receiving multiple vouchers. Bring your voucher to the market and the agent at the redemption center will measure the food using a scale.
“When participating in the program, all measurements must be done with scales, not cups. Without a scale, you are ineligible.”
The governor cautioned his aides from the 368 wards to ensure that only individuals on the social registers receive the food vouchers.
He also revealed that each personal aide has been provided with a mobile computer tablet to ensure meticulous use of the social registers for program execution.
The governor, however, emphasized that it's crucial to find a way to continue this program and for everyone to return to farming.
Earlier, the Chairman of Bulk Purchase Agency, Dr. Dan Akpan, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Offiong Offor, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Traders Matters, Mr Idorenyin Raphael and representative of traders, Godwin Ebong- President of Itam Traders Union and Madam Magdalene Udom, State Woman Leader of the trader‘s union, thanked the Governor for starting the scheme and promised to work hard for its success.
