Mr Jones Okon Akpan, a physically challenged entrepreneur from Akwa Ibom State, is one of 780 individuals who have received a N400 million business grant from the State Government as part of the Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme initiated by state Governor, Umo Eno.
During the presentation ceremony at the Government House Banquet Hall in Uyo, Eno, moved by compassion, directed that Akpan be provided with suitable mobility aids and extra support.
Addressing the beneficiaries, the governor emphasized that they are ambassadors of the Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme and encouraged them to prioritize their businesses over politics.
He further advised the beneficiaries that they have all the essentials required to succeed as entrepreneurs.
Eno recounted his success story, highlighting that respect is earned through one's capabilities, and proper grant management can result in a significant yield, as seen in his journey of starting a hotel business with just five rooms that later expanded.
“The first thing is that you must make up your minds to succeed and in that determination, there will be a place of sacrifice and self-denial. People will tell you all manner of things, don’t mind them. Your time will soon arrive.
“I have directed that Mr. Jones Okon Akpan of Jones Manufacturing, be given a good means of mobility as well as an additional support” the governor said.
Earlier, Imoabasi Jacob, the team lead of Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurship Development, praised the governor for his support to the business community in the state.
He assured that with proper training, these grants would result in fruitful outcomes for all beneficiaries.
During her keynote address, Ms Nnena Ugwu, the Head of Alumni Directorate and Support Services at the Enterprise Development Center, Pan-Atlantic University Lagos, advised the beneficiaries to develop a culture of discipline, commitment, and focus to attain success in their respective ventures.
Also speaking, Chief Assam Assam SAN, the Director General of the Umo Eno/Akon Eyakenyi campaign, praised the governor for honoring his campaign commitments and advised the beneficiaries to regard the seed money as a platform for gaining global recognition in entrepreneurship.
