By Chioma Onuegbu Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State government commenced the second phase of its palliative distribution program on Monday, providing free rice, beans, and garri to indigent and vulnerable citizens affected by the economic hardship caused by fuel subsidy removal.

At the flag-off ceremony held at the Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Council Secretariat, over 5,000 elderly and young beneficiaries from the area received food vouchers and collected the items.

General Manager of the Bulk Purchase Agency, Uyime Etim, explained that the agency’s mandate is to source, purchase, and distribute the food items to genuine beneficiaries across the state. He noted that Governor Umo Eno’s Personal Assistants issued vouchers to those registered in the social register.

“This initiative aims to cushion the effects of the harsh economy on indigent people,” Etim said. “However, the governor encourages people to return to farming as a lasting solution to hunger and poverty.”

Former House of Representatives member, Aniekan Umanah, praised Governor Eno for implementing measures to alleviate economic hardship on indigent citizens. “The beneficiaries cut across party lines, and we ensure only genuine recipients receive the foodstuffs.”

Ibesikpo Asutan State Constituency representative, Ubong Obot, commended Governor Eno, describing him as kind, generous, and compassionate.

Seventy-two-year-old beneficiary Ekemini Udoh expressed gratitude, saying, “The governor has given me reason to smile. The food items will greatly help, and I appreciate his kindness.”

The palliative distribution program demonstrates Governor Eno’s commitment to supporting vulnerable citizens during economic challenges.