Governor Umo Eno’s innovative ARISE MSME Local Government Area (LGA) Grant stands as a model for grassroots economic empowerment in Akwa Ibom State. The initiative, which supports Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with ₦5 million in seed capital and equipment financing across each of the 31 LGAs, is driving real transformation—especially in rural economies.
In the Oron Federal Constituency—comprising Oron, Okobo, Mbo, Udung-Uko, and Urueoffong Oruko—the impact has been immediate and profound. Entrepreneurs across agriculture, fashion, manufacturing, and trade have received both financial and material support, setting them on a new trajectory of business growth and sustainability.
Clearly, by directing funding and essential business equipment straight into the hands of small business owners, Governor Umo Eno is driving a bottom-up approach to economic development.
This model stimulates the growth and development of the local economy, enhances access to productive tools, and empowers citizens at the local level to drive economic value.
From palm fruit cultivators and cassava processors to fashion designers and local retailers, the grant has helped ignite new waves of productivity, job creation, and enterprise expansion in communities that previously lacked such tailored interventions.
Stephen Bassey, a beneficiary and palm oil processor in Mbo, shared heartfelt appreciation for the support received. He explained that with the new processing equipment, he can now double production and meet growing local demand. This translates to more employment, better income, and a stronger supply chain for local retailers.
Similarly, Felicu Fashionista Venture, a fashion brand based in Oron LGA, was empowered with sewing machines and accessories. The founder expressed gratitude, noting that the new tools will allow her to train apprentices, scale production, and serve a larger customer base across the region.
Interestingly, what this means for the local economy is that the grant is not just stimulating economic activities at the micro level—its effects resonate across the broader economic landscape. There is a noticeable increase in productivity, as farmers and artisans now have access to modern equipment, leading to higher output and efficiency.
Another highlight worthy of mention is the component of local value chain optimization, which enables expanded operations and higher revenues, thereby improving local purchasing power.
MSMEs account for over 90% of businesses in Nigeria and contribute nearly half of the national GDP. By boosting this sector at the local government level, the ARISE MSME Grant impacts and expands the state’s informal and formal economic base, raises the productivity index across rural LGAs, and further strengthens Akwa Ibom’s position as an emerging hub for sustainable and inclusive economic development.
Governor Umo Eno’s massive investment in local entrepreneurs proves that when governments invest directly in people’s productive capacity, transformation follows. This initiative is not just about giving grants; it is about building resilience, empowering innovation, and creating a future where small businesses are the bedrock of economic strength.
Governor Eno’s model initiative—the ARISE MSME LGA Grant—is not only redefining governance through enterprise but also building a decentralized economy where prosperity flows upward, from the grassroots to the center, and where every hardworking entrepreneur, no matter their location, is seen, supported, and strengthened.
