…Calls for Support to build home for the Elderly
A dedicated nurse from Akwa Ibom State, Eduwem George Etim, has emerged winner of the Dakkada Entrepreneurial Community Outreach (DECO) 2023.
DECO Outreach is a program coordinated by the Directorate of Marketing and Brand Management by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Marketing and Brand Management, Mr. Ime Uwah, and the Special Assistant to the Governor on Entrepreneurial Development, Mrs. Meflyn Anwana.
The program has played a significant role in fostering the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the state and aligns with the Dakkada Philosophy of Governor Udom Emmanuel, which aims to empower individuals to embrace productivity and self-reliance among the youth.
In a fiercely competitive pitch competition, Eduwem emerged as the winner, securing the grand prize with her groundbreaking proposal to establish a state-of-the-art home for the elderly.
Her innovative approach involves training a team of empathetic volunteers and caregivers to address the specific needs of aging individuals who lack children or find themselves abandoned in a state of isolation.
Winning the prize, Akwa Ibom State Government, through the Directorate of Marketing and Brand Management, awarded her with a generous N2 million star prize during the grand finale held at Emerald Events Centre in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital.
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Receiving the prize money, Eduwem hinted that with Nigeria’s aging population on the rise, there is an increasing demand for quality elderly care facilities.
According to her, establishing homes for the elderly allows for the provision of a safe and nurturing environment to cater to this growing need as well as improve their quality of life.
She added that older adults often face challenges such as loneliness, limited mobility, and specialized care needs as they age, noting that a little companionship, social engagement, access to healthcare services for seniors can help elongate their lifespan.
During the event, Mr. Ime Uwah praised Governor Emmanuel for his commitment to transforming the mindset of Akwa Ibom’s people from a static to a progressive one.
He emphasized the importance of empowering individuals to become industrious and self-sufficient, highlighting that the Dakkada spirit encourages people to rely on their own capabilities rather than solely depending on the government.
Mr. Uwah also expressed his appreciation to the DECO team for their dedication to assisting entrepreneurs and providing them with essential support, such as business training, equipment, and financial assistance.
Mrs. Meflyn Anwana, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Entrepreneurial Development, commended Governor Emmanuel for his investment in the entrepreneurial sector.
She described him as a visionary leader who is determined to see people succeed, believing that empowering even one person can have a profound ripple effect on others.
In addition to the recognition and financial support provided to Eduwem George Etim, the DECO event showcased the testimonies of previous beneficiaries who had experienced significant improvements in their businesses following the government’s intervention.
Entrepreneurs such as Blessing Umoh, Solomon Akpan, Glory Etieka, and Odudu Ndiok expressed their gratitude to Governor Udom Emmanuel for providing them with the necessary support to enhance and expand their ventures.
