Ukpong-udo commits N300 million to oil processing mills for ARISE Women empowerment in Ikono, Ini

The Member representing Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong-udo, PhD, on Tuesday, announcement a pledge of N300 million for the construction of two palm oil production and processing mills in Ikono and Ini Local Government Areas.

Ukpong-udo, accompanied by his wife, Kuseme, made the announcement as part of his support for the state government’s ARISE women empowerment programme in the areas during the women sensitisation tour on civic responsibilities held at the Ikono local government council hall in Ibiaku Ntok Okpo

According to him, the mills, programmed to be commissioned before the end of 2026, would be dedicated to the memory of the late former First Lady, Mrs Patience Umo Eno, in recognition of her passion for women’s empowerment and economic inclusion in Akwa Ibom State.

Rep. Ukpong-udo reaffirmed his commitment to economic empowerment and inclusive growth and donated over ₦21 million to both Ikono and Ini LGAs for logistics support in the programme’s implementation at the grassroots.

His intervention was widely applauded as a major boost to women-led agro-enterprises, rural industrialisation and sustainable community development.

Speaking further, Rep. Ukpong-udo reaffirmed his commitment to advancing women-driven enterprise, strengthening local economies, and sustaining the legacy of compassionate and inclusive leadership.

The event, which had the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator (Dr.) Akon Eyakenyi, the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Obareki, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, among other dignitaries in attendance, focused on empowering women and strengthening grassroots participation in the state’s development agenda