5000 Vulnerable Persons Receive Foodstuffs in Akwa Ibom Amid Food Crisis

In response to the growing food crisis and economic challenges in Nigeria, the Akwa Ibom State government has stepped in to provide relief for its most vulnerable citizens.

On Monday, 5,000 vulnerable persons in the Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area received essential food items, including rice, beans, and garri, through a palliative distribution program led by the State Bulk Purchase Agency.

The initiative, spearheaded by Governor Umo Eno, aims to ease the harsh effects of the ongoing economic downturn, which has hit the poorest segments of society hardest.
The State government, through its Bulk Purchase Agency, has prioritized identifying and supporting those most in need by using a World Bank-endorsed register of vulnerable persons.
Beneficiaries were provided government-approved vouchers and collected their foodstuffs at designated centers.

Addressing the recipients during the flag-off ceremony, the General Manager of the State Bulk Purchase Agency, Hon. Uyime Etim, emphasized the short-term nature of the relief, while encouraging residents to embrace agriculture as a long-term solution to food insecurity.
“This is a temporary measure,” Etim said.
“The governor has encouraged the people to return fully to agriculture and farming for lasting solutions to hunger and poverty.”

The palliative program is being praised for its inclusivity, as it cuts across political divides. Hon. Aniekan Umana, former member of the House of Representatives and media consultant to the governor, applauded Governor Eno for his compassionate approach and neutrality in ensuring that only those truly in need benefit from the initiative.
“The beauty of this event is that beneficiaries come from all walks of life and political inclinations,” Umana remarked.

Governor Eno’s initiative has received widespread commendation from local leaders, including Hon. Ubong Obot, member of the state House of Assembly, and Mrs. Akon Michael Asuquo, Transition Committee Chairman for Ibesikpo Asutan.
Both expressed deep gratitude to the governor for his focus on improving the lives of the less privileged in their community.

Some beneficiaries, moved by the governor’s efforts, shared their appreciation. Ekemini Udoh, a 72-year-old recipient, remarked, “When I go to the market, I return home heartbroken because of the high cost of items. What I have gotten today will help me a lot.”

Governor Umo Eno’s food distribution initiative is set to continue across all 31 local government areas of Akwa Ibom State, with the palliatives slated to reach additional communities in the coming months.