—– STÀNDBYNETWORK —
In a recent gathering, traders in Akwa Ibom State have expressed their profound appreciation for Governor Umo Eno’s significant contributions to the advancement of trade and commerce within his first year in office. The commendations were made during an expanded meeting held in Uyo on Thursday, May 30, 2024.
Led by Akparawa Idorenyin Raphael, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Traders Matters, the traders applauded Governor Eno for his continuous support and dedication to improving market conditions and the welfare of market participants. They highlighted his numerous accomplishments and unanimously passed a vote of confidence in his leadership as he marks his first anniversary in office.
Addressing the assembly, Akparawa Raphael, who also serves as the President of the Akwa Ibom Traders Forum, pledged unwavering loyalty and support to Governor Eno’s administration for the remaining seven years. He assured the Governor of their cooperation in the implementation of policies and programs aimed at enhancing the state’s development and improving the traders’ livelihoods.
The traders commended Akparawa Raphael for effectively representing their interests and facilitating the execution of the Governor’s initiatives in the market sector. They cited various achievements under Governor Eno’s tenure that have bolstered their trading activities and uplifted their economic status, including:
::The introduction of a 1.5 billion Naira interest-free loan, with 500 million Naira allocated to each senatorial district.
Construction projects such as the Ndiya Street drainage and solar light installations at Akpan Andem Market.
The implementation of the AK-Cares initiative and the establishment of the Ibom Model Farm and Resort.
The appointment of traders into government positions and the upgrading of market infrastructure, including roads and storage facilities.
The group also urged traders to maintain voluntary membership in market unions, emphasizing that no trader should be compelled to join any union. They resolved that any group or market union preventing traders from selling their goods should be banned, and their leaders prosecuted. Additionally, they decided that induction fees for any trader wishing to join a market union should not exceed N5,000.
Governor Eno’s first year in office has evidently brought transformative changes to the trading sector, earning him the trust and admiration of the Akwa Ibom traders.
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