The Senator representing Cross River South Senatorial District, Asuquo Ekpenyong, has facilitated the disbursement of N100,000 grants to 400 constituents to support small businesses and stimulate economic activity in the district.
The empowerment programme, organised in collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), was held in Calabar, with each beneficiary receiving N100,000 to strengthen their businesses.
Speaking at the event on Friday, Ekpenyong said the initiative is part of his ongoing efforts to support entrepreneurs, particularly women and youths, across the seven local government areas of the senatorial district.
He noted that economic empowerment remains one of the most effective ways to promote development and reduce poverty in local communities.
According to the senator, the intervention is designed to help beneficiaries expand their businesses, improve productivity, and generate additional income for their families and communities.
Ekpenyong also reassured constituents that the programme is one of several initiatives planned to improve livelihoods across the district.
He revealed that preparations are already underway for a larger empowerment programme that will reach even more residents in Cross River South.
Some beneficiaries praised the senator for facilitating the grant and creating opportunities for grassroots economic growth.
Nsa Effiom described the support as timely, noting that it would strengthen his business and improve his livelihood, while Benedicta Itayip expressed gratitude to the lawmaker for ensuring empowerment initiatives reach ordinary constituents and benefit communities directly.
