The executive governor of Akwa Ibom State, Gov. Umo Eno, has approved the transfer of N450 million as counterpart financing for the ‘Nigeria for Women Project,’ a World Bank initiative aimed at empowering women in the state.
Eno made the announcement while hosting a World Bank group led by Nigerian Country Director Shudham Chaudhury at the Government House in Uyo on Thursday.
While reiterating his administration’s willingness to collaborate in critical areas of agriculture and rural development, the governor stated that the organisation’s mission was consistent with his administration’s “ARISE Agenda.”
The governor promised that the state will work to fill gaps in existing projects and explore new areas of collaboration with the World Bank to benefit Akwa Ibom residents.
“On the N450m that was supposed to be contributed, I know I have given the approval, and I can tell you that in the next one week, we will disburse it,” he said.
Earlier, World Bank Country Director Chaudhury stated that his visit was intended to share information with the state as well as provide an overview of the World Bank’s efforts and support for Nigeria in promoting the nation’s and subnationals’ development.
He reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to addressing development concerns that, in his opinion, will push Nigerians out of poverty.
He applauded the governor for the ARISE Agenda’s rich substance, calling it appealing and result-oriented.
