Leprosy patients in Etinan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, under the aegis of Hopeful Vulnerable Group, HVG, have commended World Bank and the state government for empowering them through life-touching projects.
The state government in collaboration with World Bank had dolled out the sum of N10 million to the group to enable them kick start the implementation of micro projects that would help meet the needs of the less privileged in the community.
Speaking with newsmen on Wednesday, during the inspection of completed projects in Ekpene Obom community, Etinan LGA, the spokesperson of the group, Mrs Lucy Stephenson disclosed that the group had so far completed four projects in the community, adding that the completed projects has not only helped reduce poverty but has equally given them the self confidence needed to participate in the affairs of the community.
Stephenson listed the completed projects to include, purchase of bus, drilling of motorized borehole, purchase of school materials for children and special medicine for leprosy patients.
She said, ” Hopeful Vulnerable Group have judiciously made use of the funds given to them by world bank and the state government. So far we have completed four projects in our community and this projects has helped us in so many ways. It has given us a voice in the community.
“I want to thank world bank and Akwa Ibom State Community and Social Development Project for assisting us financially.”
Similarly, the Headmistress of Methodist School in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, Mrs Grace Joseph Ekim stated that through the support of World bank and AK-CSDP, four classroom blocks has been renovated along side headmaster’s office, deputy headmaster’s office, library and toilet.
Ekim also disclosed that the community had completed two other projects which includes, a drilling motorized borehole and a VIP Cell Toilet.
She noted that the renovation of the four classrooms blocks, has created a conducive studying and teaching environment for the pupils and teachers, adding that the completed projects has given the school a new look.
“We have benefited positively from the four classroom blocks provided to us through the support of World bank. Through the project, the office of the. Headmaster and Deputy Headmaster was renovated. Desk, Chairs, library and toilet were also provided for the pupils and teacher. A VIP Cell Toilet and a motorized borehole were also provided.
“This community projects were chosen by the community because we want a conducive environment for our pupils to learn. Ever since the completion of these projects, the numbers of pupils in this school has increased and they are ready and willing to learn because they feel comfortable in the school.
“I want to use this opportunity to thank the world bank, state government and Akwa Ibom State Agency for Community and Social Development Project for their financial support to ensure that every micro projects in this community are completed.” She said
In his remarks , the General Manager, Akwa Ibom State Agency for Community and Social Development, AK-CSDP, Mr. Ishmeal Akpan urged the Beneficiaries to ensure that each completed projects are protected.
“We facilitated funds to the group and community to carry out their preferred projects which was approved by world bank. The projects are owned by the people. We are merely giving a hand to ensure that the projects are completed.” He said
