Gov Eno Hails Tinubu’s N2.1bn Cash Support to 28,000 Poor Residents

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has praised the Federal Government for disbursing N2.1 billion in cash to over 28,000 poor and vulnerable citizens across the state’s 31 local government areas.

The payment, part of the Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer (RHCCT) programme, was launched in Uyo over the weekend. Governor Eno, represented by Lady Helen Eno-Obareki, Acting First Lady and coordinator of his late wife’s office, described the initiative as a commendable step in easing hardship.

He said the programme, coordinated through the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) with state support, targets those at the bottom of the economic ladder. Eno assured of his continued support for the President’s social protection plans, stating that they have brought real relief to those in need.

“We are carrying out many economic projects, but our real legacy will be the lives we touch, especially the vulnerable,” he said.

Governor Eno also highlighted state-level support schemes, including business and agricultural empowerment efforts. He noted that over ₦60 billion has been paid in gratuities out of a ₦98 billion backlog from 2012 to 2023.

Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Emem Ibanga, praised the governor’s welfare drive, citing the construction of over 205 ARISE Compassionate Homes for the vulnerable.

State NSIP Focal Person, Dr. Godwin Akpan, explained that Akwa Ibom joined the cash transfer programme in 2019 with 29,117 households in nine LGAs. In December 2023, it was expanded to cover all 31 LGAs. So far, N2.1 billion has been disbursed from January to July 2025.

One of the beneficiaries, Joseph Emmanuel from Ikot Ekpene, who is visually impaired, thanked both federal and state governments for ensuring a transparent, non-political selection process.