By Ekaette Okon-Joseph
The Akwa Ibom State Government has commissioned five new women-focused agro-processing mills in Esit Eket Local Government Area, bringing the total number of functional facilities to 65 and benefiting more than 73,000 women across the state. The initiative, part of the Nigeria for Women Project funded by the state government with support from the World Bank, aims to strengthen rural enterprise, boost household incomes, and attract private investments.
Representing Governor Umo Eno at the commissioning ceremony on Friday, Deputy Governor Sen. Akon Eyakenyi said the projects, one garri processing mill, and four palm oil mills, are designed to improve productivity and provide sustainable income for women engaged in agro-processing and small-scale enterprises.
“The governor appreciates and values women, and that is why he sent me to commission these projects,” Eyakenyi said.
“These mills are meant to help women improve their productivity and income. We are also facilitating access to investors to buy products processed at these mills, ensuring sustainable markets for these entrepreneurs.”
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Inibehe Silas, described the programme as a catalyst for economic empowerment, enabling women to gain access to productive assets, skills, and training in financial literacy and hygiene.
Dr. Ini Adiahakpan, the State Delivery Adviser for the programme, confirmed that more than 73,000 women have benefited from the initiative across Akwa Ibom State, noting that the new facilities will deepen women’s participation in economic development.
Speaking on behalf of the host community, the Village Head of Ikpa, Chief Inwang Umo, commended the state government for its commitment to rural industrialisation and visible development.
The Nigeria for Women Project reflects Akwa Ibom’s broader strategy to drive grassroots industrialisation, expand women-owned enterprises, and create avenues for investment, strengthening household incomes and fostering inclusive economic growth.
