From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
Enugu State governor, Peter Mbah, has disbursed grants to over 1,000 farmers and traders in Akpawfu, Nkanu East Local Government Area, as part of efforts to boost grassroots economic development.
The disbursement, which took place at Isiagu Akpawfu Field, drew a large turnout of beneficiaries and community members.
The beneficiaries described the initiative as unprecedented, commending the governor for a practical demonstration of support for rural livelihoods.
Speaking to journalists, the traditional ruler of Isiagu Akpawfu community, Igwe Tony Ikeokoye, expressed appreciation to the governor, describing the grants as a rare and impactful intervention.
“I’m highly elated by this gesture. It is not a right but a privilege. Governor Mbah has shown practical love to our people. We are grateful for this support extended to us.
“This is the first time we are witnessing a governor executing projects without making prior promises. In the past, there were promises that were not fulfilled. But now, we see projects already on ground. It reflects love, character, and a clear vision for a better Akpawfu,” he said.
The traditional ruler urged beneficiaries to make good use of the grants to improve their livelihoods and support the state government’s development efforts.
Also speaking, the coordinator of the programme in the community, Sunday Ibemdiri, described the initiative as historic and transformative.
“What is happening here today is unprecedented. We have not witnessed anything like this in our community before,” he said.
Ibemdiri noted that the intervention is part of broader development efforts in the area, including the construction of the Akpawfu–Amagunze–Amode Road, the completion of a smart school, and an ongoing farm estate project.
He confirmed that the beneficiaries, mainly farmers and small-scale traders, turned out in large numbers to receive the grants.
“As you can see, over 1,000 people are benefiting from this initiative. That is the governor’s style, once he commits, he delivers,” he said.
Ibemdiri also commended community leader, Chief Chinedu Nwobodo, describing him as a “silent achiever” whose relationship with the governor has helped attract development to the area.
Some beneficiaries who spoke at the event expressed gratitude for the support and pledged to use the funds productively.
Obiageli Okenwa, a former women leader of Isienu/Akpawfu Ward, said the intervention had made a positive impact on the community.
“We are satisfied with this grant and grateful to the governor for remembering us,” she said.
Similarly, Livinus Nnamani assured that the funds would be put to good use.
“This support will go a long way in improving our businesses. We thank the governor for this timely intervention,” he said.
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