A total of 180 market women in Akwa Ibom State have received business grants of ₦100,000 each, courtesy of the Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS) in collaboration with Nka Uforo Iban Washington DC.

The initiative, which spanned nine local government areas, aims to help vulnerable women upscale their businesses and improve their livelihoods.

The final phase of the program was held on Saturday at Ete Market in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area.

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Speaking at the event, Mr. Asukwo Etuk, Chief Technical Officer and Head of Admin at ECEWS, said the project specifically targeted women in dire need of support.

“We were intentional about selecting the most vulnerable women in the state,” Etuk explained. “The grant is meant to empower them to improve their enterprises, ensure their children stay in school, and enhance their overall livelihoods.

“We don’t want a situation where children are seen on the streets hawking when they should be in school. So, our criteria for selecting the beneficiaries included women who struggled to buy items to sell, those earning less than ₦2,000 daily, women from child-headed households, and individuals affected by HIV/AIDS or disasters,” he added.

The initiative also included training sessions to help the women effectively manage their businesses. Enobong Inuaeshiet, Manager of Nka Uforo Iban Washington DC, described the program as a partnership committed to creating lasting impact.

“Since September, we have been working across nine local government areas, and this is the last one we are visiting,” Inuaeshiet said. “In addition to providing grants, I train market women on effective business management, customer relationships, and avoiding debt traps.”

She further explained that market leaders are involved in monitoring the beneficiaries to ensure the grants are used appropriately.

Some of the beneficiaries, who spoke during the event, expressed their appreciation for the support. A trader from Ete Market said, “This support is life-changing. I will use the grant to grow my business and better support my family.”

The empowerment initiative, described as a significant step toward poverty alleviation, is expected to boost economic activities across the state while improving the lives of vulnerable women and their families.

Super Eagles Captain, Ahmed Musa has been signed up by Jaiz Bank as a brand ambassador.

An elated Musa made the disclosure in a statement on his verified handle on micro-blogging site, X on Thursday.

The Kano Pillars striker urged his fans to troop to Jaiz Bank to do business for trusting him with the new role.

He exclaimed, “And to my amazing fans – if you want to support me, make sure to head over to Jaiz Bank and open your accounts with them today! ”

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He wrote, “✨Alhamdulillah✨ I am SO excited to announce that I’ve officially joined Jaiz Bank as their newest ambassador! 🎉💼
“A huge thank you to @JaizBankNG for trusting me and allowing me to be a part of this amazing journey! 🙏🏼💚 It’s an honor to represent a brand that believes in growth, security, and financial empowerment.

“I can’t wait to share all the incredible things we’ll be doing together! 🚀💡
And to my amazing fans – if you want to support me, make sure to head over to Jaiz Bank and open your accounts with them today! Let’s grow together! 💪🏼🔑

“@JaizBankNG is a non interest Financial institution poised with a mission to make life better through ethical Finance. 👌👌”

#NewBeginnings #BankWithJaizBank #PartneredUp #TeamJaizBank”

On November 20, 2024, Kenya’s First Lady, Rachel Ruto, celebrated her 56th birthday and her husband President William Ruto publicly expressed his love and appreciation for his wife on this special day, wishing her well.

The birthday celebrations were marked by an outpouring of goodwill from political figures, media, and citizens across Kenya, who praised her for her grace, leadership, and significant contributions to society, particularly through initiatives like the Joyful Women Organisation, which aims to empower rural women.

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The day was characterized by a collective acknowledgment of her role as a national figure dedicated to community upliftment.

In a heartfelt message, President William Ruto took to social media, writing, “Happy birthday my love, @MamaRachelRuto. Continue being a blessing to me and our children. Mungu akubariki sana,” which translates to “God bless you abundantly.”

Other prominent leaders also extended their wishes to the First Lady, with Anne Waiguru, EGH, OGW, Governor of Kirinyaga County, tweeting, “Happy Birthday First Lady,” further showing the respect and admiration for Rachel Ruto’s leadership and impact.