In a heart of benevolence, Ibom Developers FZE has distributed heavy-duty industrial umbrellas to traders, Point-of-Sale (POS) vendors, and commercial motorcyclists in Ete Market, Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. The initiative, part of the company’s Small Business Support Programme, aims to provide durable shades to protect goods and operations from harsh weather conditions, boosting daily business activities and enhancing productivity.
The beneficiaries, who expressed deep appreciation for the company’s intervention, described the industrial umbrellas as a timely lifeline for their businesses. The umbrellas are designed for long-term use and are expected to improve customer experience and reduce losses incurred during heavy rains or scorching sun.
This initiative underscores Ibom Developers FZE’s commitment to supporting livelihoods and promoting sustainable economic growth in its host communities. The company has previously rolled out projects designed to improve infrastructure, support education, and enhance livelihoods in the area.
Akwa Ibom Commissioners, Advisers eulogize late Governor’s wife, Patience Eno
Speaking during the exercise, the Community Development Project Manager of Ibom Developers FZE, Grace Inyang, explained that the gesture underscores the company’s resolve to uplift the socio-economic well-being of its host communities.
“This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to support livelihoods and promote sustainable economic growth. By providing these umbrellas, we hope to ease the daily struggles of market women, POS vendors, and bike operators who work tirelessly to sustain their families,” Inyang said.
Also addressing the gathering, the Base Manager (National), Barr. Monday Umoh, urged residents to maintain the prevailing peace in Ikot Abasi to enable the company to operate optimally and continue its community development projects.
“Peaceful coexistence remains the foundation of progress. We encourage beneficiaries and all residents to protect these investments by fostering unity and harmony in the community,” Umoh emphasized.
The Clan Head of Okun-Ete community, Etebom Nsikak Etuk, commended Ibom Developers for its inclusive and people-centered development approach.
“Ibom Developers has shown genuine commitment to the welfare of our people. We urge the company to also consider direct financial support or low-interest loans to help our traders expand their businesses,” Etuk appealed.
Beneficiaries of the program expressed deep appreciation for the company’s intervention, describing the industrial umbrellas as a timely lifeline for their businesses.
Madam Ekaette Udo, a vegetable trader at Ete Market, said the umbrellas would help her protect her goods from the sun and sudden rainfall.
“Before now, I used old tarpaulin to cover my vegetables, and sometimes I lost goods when rain caught me unprepared. This umbrella will save me money and keep my vegetables fresh. We are grateful to Ibom Developers for remembering us,” she said with a smile.
Similarly, Iniobong Peter, a POS operator, highlighted the economic impact of the gesture on small-scale service providers.
“Many of us work outdoors and spend extra money on makeshift shelters that don’t last. This
umbrella is strong and wide enough to protect me and my customers. It will help me keep my business running even during the rainy season,” he noted.
Commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as okada riders, also welcomed the initiative. Edidiong Akpan, a bike operator, explained that the umbrellas would serve as waiting points for riders and passengers, making their operations more comfortable.
“Now we have a place to stay when it rains or when the sun is too hot. This shows Ibom Developers cares about our daily hustle,” Akpan said.
The Small Business Support Programme is part of a broader Community Development Program (CDP) by Ibom Developers FZE, which continues to roll out projects designed to improve infrastructure, support education, and enhance livelihoods in its host communities.
Previous interventions include scholarships for indigent students, renovation of school facilities, and the provision of boreholes to improve access to potable water.
By empowering market women, POS vendors, and commercial motorcyclists, Ibom Developers FZE is reinforcing its reputation as a socially responsible corporate citizen. The company says such interventions are critical to fostering sustainable economic growth, strengthening local businesses, and improving the overall quality of life for residents of Ikot Abasi and surrounding communities.
