The second phase of free food distribution to the vulnerable, an initiative of the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has commenced in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area.
Governor Eno at the height of the economic challenges facing the country assured the vulnerable citizens of his administration’s determination to cater for their welfare.
The program, which is anchored by the State Bulk Purchase Agency, saw beneficiaries who had confirmed their names on the social register receive their palliatives in exchange for food vouchers.
Flagging off the second phase of the palliative distribution Monday, September 16, 2024, the general manager of the State Bulk Purchase Agency, Hon. Unyime Etim explained that the Agency is relying on the World Bank endorsed register for the vulnerable to choose the beneficiaries.
According to him, “the governor’s personal assistants in the council’s wards were directed to issue vouchers to only those in the register and all they do is to come here, authenticate their voucher and return home with the food stuffs.”
Those who had not yet received vouchers were seen queuing up to collect theirs, before proceeding to receive their palliatives.
The event, which took place at the secondary school, Nung Udoe was witnessed by the transition committee chairman and members in the area and other stakeholders.
The chairman of the Agency, Dr Dan Akpan explained that the Food Security Programme is designed to cushion the effects of economic hardship on the most vulnerable members in the society and under the current phase, the agency directly takes the food to the respective local government areas where on different days for the beneficiaries.
Also speaking, a former member of the House of Representatives and Media Consultant to the governor, Hon Aniekan Umana said the palliative distribution is timely owing to the prevailing economic situation in the country and commended the governor for his humane disposition towards the needy.
Umanah highlighted that the foodstuffs were meant for Akwa Ibom people devoid of political inclination and strictly for those who are truly vulnerable.
Residents of Ibesikpo Asutan expressed profound gratitude to Governor Umo Eno for his compassionate leadership and commitment to his campaign promises.
“We are thankful for Governor Eno’s kindness and concern for the welfare of his people,” said Mr. Solomon Eyo, Special Assistant to the governor on Multi Media and Web Management.
Governor Eno is a blessing to our state, his generosity and care for the poor are exemplary. We pray God to continue to guide and bless him”, added Mrs. Grace Akpan, a beneficiary.
“Governor Eno’s food distribution initiative demonstrates his unwavering commitment to the people’s welfare,” said the commissioner for agriculture and rural development Offiong Offor, who added, “We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that no one is left behind.”
The food distribution exercise is expected to continue across the state on a daily basis, bringing relief to thousands of households.