The Akwa Ibom State Government is set to host a grand “ARISE Happy Hour and Evening of Rewards” on February 6, 2025, a multifaceted event designed to celebrate excellence, reward outstanding performance, and empower individuals and groups across various sectors. The event, spearheaded by Governor Umo Eno, will feature a dazzling performance by highlife music sensation Flavour, adding an element of entertainment to the celebratory atmosphere. The core of the event, however, revolves around acknowledging and rewarding the contributions of individuals and groups who have significantly impacted the state’s progress and development. This initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to recognizing and incentivizing hard work, dedication, and innovation within the state.
A key highlight of the event is the recognition of outstanding civil servants. Fifty exemplary civil servants, selected from various ministries, departments, and parastatals (MDAs) across Akwa Ibom State, will each receive a substantial cash prize of N1 million. These individuals were nominated during the December 2024 ministerial briefings, a testament to their consistent and impactful performance throughout the year. The substantial monetary reward signifies the government’s appreciation for their dedication, excellence, and unwavering commitment to public service. This initiative not only acknowledges their individual contributions but also serves to motivate other civil servants to strive for excellence in their respective roles.
Beyond the recognition of civil servants, the event will also feature the empowerment of female entrepreneurs. Governor Eno will disburse a total of N300 million to 400 trained female youths under the Ibom LED Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme. Each beneficiary under this program will receive N750,000, providing them with vital seed capital to launch or expand their businesses. This initiative reflects the administration’s focus on empowering women and youth, recognizing their pivotal role in driving economic growth and development within the state. By providing them with financial resources and essential training, the program aims to equip young female entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed in the competitive business landscape.
The “ARISE Happy Hour and Evening of Rewards” will also extend its accolades to the agricultural sector. Fifty participants of the Arise Home Farmers Scheme will each receive a grant of N500,000, bolstering their agricultural endeavors and contributing to the state’s food security initiatives. This recognition and financial support underscore the government’s commitment to promoting agricultural development and empowering local farmers. By investing in these individuals, the administration aims to enhance agricultural productivity, create sustainable livelihoods, and strengthen the overall agricultural sector within the state.
The event’s scope extends beyond individual achievements, encompassing community-level contributions as well. The best-performing local government areas from the Christmas Unplugged 2024 event will also receive recognition and awards. This initiative recognizes the collective efforts of communities in fostering festive cheer and promoting unity during the holiday season. By acknowledging and rewarding these local government areas, the administration encourages community engagement and fosters a spirit of healthy competition among different regions within the state.
The “ARISE Happy Hour and Evening of Rewards” promises to be a memorable occasion, blending entertainment with a strong emphasis on recognizing and rewarding contributions across various sectors. The event serves as a platform to celebrate excellence, empower individuals and communities, and reinforce the administration’s commitment to driving positive change and development within Akwa Ibom State. By bringing together civil servants, entrepreneurs, farmers, and community representatives, the event fosters a sense of shared purpose and celebrates the collective efforts that contribute to the state’s progress and prosperity. The presence of highlife icon Flavour further elevates the event, adding a vibrant and celebratory dimension to the proceedings.
