In a bold move to stimulate grassroots economic growth, Ini Local Government Chairman, Hon. Inibehe Umah, has launched the ₦120 million ‘U Rise, We Rise Empowerment Scheme’, aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and local trade.
Speaking at the official launch on August 20 at the Ini Council Secretariat, Umah stated that the scheme is a strategic economic intervention—not welfare—targeted at market women, artisans, farmers, and youths. In the first phase, selected beneficiaries received ₦500,000 each to support small businesses and startups.
“This is an intentional plan to create a cycle of prosperity in Ini. When one rises, others benefit—suppliers, traders, households,” Umah said.
The initiative, aligned with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, will focus on agriculture, ICT, vocational skills, and small-scale enterprise development, with monthly disbursements to drive sustained impact.
Elder Edet Udoakang, DG of the INIBEHE-INI Campaign Council, called the programme “a bold economic reset,” while beneficiaries praised the support as transformative.
Widely regarded as one of Ini’s most impactful empowerment schemes, ‘U Rise, We Rise’ is expected to expand opportunity, reduce dependency, and nurture a new wave of local wealth creators.
I think this scheme could be a game-changer if it’s focused on providing skills training and sustainable employment. The people of INI LG deserve to have more opportunities for growth.
It’s refreshing to see such a significant investment in local development. Initiatives like the ‘U Rise, We Rise’ scheme can have a lasting impact if they’re sustained and supported by the community. It’s these kinds of projects that can truly drive long-term growth for Akwa Ibom.