Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, representing the Cross River South Senatorial District in Nigeria, has successfully facilitated a grant disbursement aimed at aiding small businesses in his constituency. The event, which took place in Calabar, saw a total of N40 million allocated to support 400 constituents, with each recipient receiving N100,000. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the entrepreneurial landscape within the region, particularly benefiting women and youth who are often at the forefront of small business ventures.

During the program, Senator Ekpenyong emphasized the importance of empowering constituents economically as a means to foster sustainable development and alleviate poverty in the area. He expressed his commitment to continuing support for entrepreneurs, stating that such initiatives play a crucial role in driving the local economy forward. The partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) demonstrates a collaborative approach to addressing the challenges faced by small businesses in Cross River.

This grant disbursement reflects a growing recognition of the need to bolster local economies by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises. As small businesses are essential for job creation and economic stability, initiatives such as this one are vital for the residents of Cross River, laying a foundation for improved productivity and economic resilience in the future.