Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong has facilitated a N100,000 grant disbursement to 400 constituents as part of an empowerment programme aimed at supporting small businesses and improving productivity.
The initiative, organised in collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, was held on Thursday in Calabar, where each beneficiary received the grant.
Speaking during the event, Senator Ekpenyong emphasised that the programme is part of his ongoing efforts to empower entrepreneurs, women, and youths in the senatorial district.
“Empowering constituents economically remains one of the most sustainable ways to drive development and reduce poverty,” he said.
He noted that the SMEDAN-supported intervention is designed to help beneficiaries expand their small businesses, increase productivity, and create additional sources of income for their families and communities.
Senator Ekpenyong also revealed that preparations are underway for a larger empowerment programme in the near future, which will reach more residents across the seven local government areas of Cross River South.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the support. Nsa Effiom described the grant as timely and said it would help strengthen his business and livelihood, while Benedicta Itayip commended the Senator for ensuring empowerment programmes reach grassroots communities.
The event was attended by community leaders, stakeholders, and beneficiaries from across the senatorial district, who described the intervention as a significant step towards grassroots economic development.
