The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced plans to empower 110,000 women across the state’s 31 Local Government Areas through cooperative societies, with the official rollout scheduled for October 2026. Governor Umo Eno disclosed the ambitious project during the launch of the Federal Government’s rural women empowerment initiative and Liquefied Petroleum Gas distribution event in Uyo.
Under the scheme, at least 300 women will be selected from each political ward to receive economic support aimed at improving household financial well-being. Governor Eno highlighted that empowering women remains a core component of his administration’s ARISE Agenda, noting that investments in women create a multiplier effect that strengthens local economies and communities.
To ensure long-term sustainability, the state government is structuring the intervention around registered cooperative societies. This framework will give beneficiaries better access to financial networks, market resources, and organized economic activities. The support is tailored for women running micro and small businesses across key sectors, including agriculture, petty trading, food processing, retail, fashion, and services.
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The initiative also aligns with federal programs, including the Renewed Hope Initiative, expanding financial support for women to start, grow, and sustain their enterprises. Alongside direct business support, the joint federal and state effort is delivering 27,000 Liquefied Petroleum Gas cylinders to low-income households across Akwa Ibom. This clean energy project aims to reduce reliance on traditional biomass fuels, lower daily living expenses, and foster a cleaner environment. Local cooperative structures and community leaders are now coordinating efforts to identify and mobilize participants ahead of the October launch.
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