By Theresa Donatus, Uyo
Joy and excitement filled Ini Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State as the Executive Chairman, Hon. (Amb.) Inibehe Umah, marked his first anniversary in office with the disbursement of ₦120 million to 22 youths under the second phase of his flagship empowerment programme, “U Rise, We Rise.”
The event, which also doubled as a special Independence Day Breakfast Meeting, took place at the Ini Council Hall, Odoro Ikpe, in commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary. It attracted political leaders, traditional rulers, entrepreneurs, youth groups, and stakeholders from across the area.
Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Umah said he deliberately aligned his first anniversary celebration with Nigeria’s Independence Day to highlight the shared values of freedom, resilience, and unity that underpin both the nation and his administration.
“Our administration is anchored on grassroots development, youth empowerment, and sustainable livelihoods. This ₦120 million empowerment initiative is more than financial aid, it is a pathway to self-reliance, innovation, and community growth,” he declared.
Under the scheme, 22 young beneficiaries drawn from the 11 wards of Ini received ₦500,000 each to support their farming and entrepreneurial ventures. Beneficiaries included Emmanuel Udo Udo and Ubong Udo (Ward 1), Enimini Friday and Anietie Udoka (Ward 2), among others across the remaining wards.
Hon. Umah emphasized that the initiative aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, assuring that his administration will continue to roll out programs aimed at tackling poverty, supporting agriculture, and driving rural development.
Delivering a goodwill message, Hon. Lawrence Udoide, Member representing Ini State Constituency, described the council boss as “a genius who consistently thinks outside the box,” pledging continued partnership to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of Ini.
Also speaking, political leader of Iwere, Barr. Essien Essien, lauded Hon. Umah for surpassing expectations within his first year in office.
Similarly, Dr. Godwin Udoudo, mentor to the council boss, commended his “unprecedented scorecard” and called for sustained support from stakeholders.
Founder of the Uyo Book Club, Dr. Udeme Nana, praised Umah’s inclusive and innovative leadership style, noting that his approach to governance was “winning the confidence of the people and reshaping local administration.”
The breakfast meeting was graced by a host of dignitaries, including Hon. Mrs. Veronica Edidiong Bassey (Vice Chairman, Ini LGA), Hon. Ubong Mkpa (Secretary to Council), Hon. Donald Usoroh (Leader, 8th Ini Legislative Council), Elder Edet Udoakang, Hon. Isaac Moses, Hon. Innocent Udom, Hon. Emmanuel Umah, Dr. Godwin Udoudo, Dr. Udeme Nana, Mrs. Elizabeth Ibanga, and Retired CSP Asuquo Inyang, among others.
Traditional rulers, councillors, youth leaders, and women groups also joined the celebration, describing it as a symbolic convergence of unity, empowerment, and patriotism, a fitting tribute to Nigeria’s 65 years of independence.
Photo Caption:
The Executive Chairman, Ini LGA , Hon. (Amb.) Inibehe Umah,
