October 15, (THEWILL) — The Personal Assistant to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State in East Itam Five, Ward Seven, Itu Local Government Area, Mrs Bright Mbuk, has empowered over 70 people in her ward with cash, learning materials, food items, clothing, and other support materials.
Speaking with THEWILL on Wednesday, Mrs Mbuk said the gesture was part of activities to mark her second anniversary in office, noting that she had earlier held a thanksgiving service in church where she also made donations to celebrate the milestone.
Mrs Mbuk, who was appointed as one of the 368 Ward Personal Assistants under Governor Umo Eno’s grassroots governance initiative, said she decided to give back to her community in appreciation for the opportunity to serve.
“The governor’s vision of bringing governance closer to the people inspired me to touch lives in my immediate environment. I’m grateful to him for his leadership and the opportunity to serve my ward”, she stated.
The beneficiaries included village heads, stakeholders, widows, indigent persons, and students, who received financial assistance and study materials.
Mbuk thanked Governor Eno for his inclusive leadership style, describing him as “a wonderful boss to all his appointees, irrespective of background or qualification.” She also appreciated ward stakeholders for nominating her for the position and pledged continued loyalty to her political leaders.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency Advisory Council, Elder Godwin Mbeke, commended the gesture and urged other government appointees to emulate her.
“This is the kind of gesture we expect from our representatives; not bitterness, gossip, or blackmail. Let’s live in peace and unity so that our ward can progress”, he admonished.
Also speaking, the Ward Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Elder George Utip, described the empowerment as “a step in the right direction and thought-provoking.” He prayed for higher blessings on the PA and encouraged beneficiaries to treat the gifts as seeds that could multiply when nurtured.
One of the beneficiaries, Emem Nsima, expressed appreciation to Mrs Mbok, describing the outreach as “a rare act of kindness” and a sign of “better things to come” for the ward.
