Biase LG chairman supports over 100 locals with business tools

The Chairman of Biase Local Government Area in Cross River State, Edodi Eyong, has started a business empowerment scheme. He donated equipment to over 100 locals across the 11 wards in the LGA.

The beneficiaries received deep freezers, generators, sewing machines, clippers, and hair dryers. This is part of the administration’s plan to reduce unemployment and help people become self-reliant.

During the launch ceremony at the council secretariat, Eyong said this scheme aims to equip youths, women, and vulnerable persons with tools to start and grow small businesses.

He stated, “This empowerment initiative is designed to equip our people, especially the youth, women and vulnerable persons. It is to assist them with tools to start and grow small businesses, which will better our economy.”

Eyong explained that the distribution of items was done fairly to ensure all wards in Biase LGA benefited from the programme.

“This administration is committed to creating opportunities for our people. These items are not just gifts; they are tools for wealth creation and independence. My goal is to see Biase people become employers of labour,” the council chairman said.

He urged the beneficiaries to use the items wisely. He added that monitoring teams would check to ensure the equipment was used for the right purposes.

Governor Bassey Otu, represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Ijom Ukam, praised the council chairman for supporting his “People First” agenda.

He described the empowerment as timely and impactful. He also mentioned that the state government would keep supporting local governments that focus on youth and women empowerment.

The Paramount Ruler of Biase LGA, Onun Nicholas Odum, also praised the chairman for empowering people at the grassroots level.

He urged beneficiaries to use the equipment wisely and not to sell them. He noted that this initiative would help boost the economy of the state.

Alex Ukam, the Federal Commissioner of the National Population Commission, called this gesture a practical way to fight poverty locally.

He encouraged other council chairmen to follow this example.

One beneficiary, Albert Owali, who goes by Sugar Boy and runs a provision shop, received deep freezers and generators.

He expressed that this support would greatly improve his business and livelihood.

“I want to sincerely thank the council chairman for remembering us. These items will help improve my business status and boost my business. This is the kind of empowerment that touches the grassroots,” he said.

Another beneficiary, Jenny Ojoi, received a generator and a sewing machine. She thanked the chairman and the state government.

She said the equipment would help her with her daily business activities.

“I am a tailor, but I have been struggling because of power. With this generator and sewing machine, I can now work day and night and train other youths,” she said.

The distribution covered all 11 wards of Biase LGA, with party leaders, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders present.