Young people and small business owners in Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State are set to benefit from a new empowerment initiative that combines vocational skills development with direct financial support to tackle unemployment and stimulate grassroots economic growth.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Effiat and Mbo Host Communities Development Trust said the programme comprises two key components: vocational training and business grants.
The Trust, with funding from Oriental Energy Resources Limited, said the human capital development initiative is designed to equip young people with market-relevant skills while providing entrepreneurs with financial support to expand viable businesses.
According to the Trust, the programme is aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth by reducing unemployment, encouraging self-reliance, and strengthening livelihoods across the Effiat and Mbo host communities.
Vocational training will be delivered at three institutions: DakkadaSkills Acquisition Centre in Ibiono-Ibom, Azimarine & General Services Ltd in Ibeno, and APTECH Computer School in Uyo.
The business grant component is intended to accelerate enterprise growth by providing funding to businesses with strong expansion potential.
“This initiative is designed to fund viable, growth-oriented businesses with a clear capacity for expansion. The goal is to stimulate local economies, create employment opportunities, and improve household incomes within our host communities,” the statement read.
The Trust expressed confidence that integrating vocational training with start-up and business expansion funding would strengthen local enterprises, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the long-term socio-economic development of the host communities.
