By Ralph Etim
The Senior Special Assistant SSA to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State on Trade and Market Matters, Akparawa Idoreyin Raphael, has reaffirmed the unwavering support of the traders’ community for Governor Umo Eno ahead of the 2027 general elections and beyond.
Speaking during an interview on Team Nigeria Classic on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, Raphael attributed the sustained loyalty of traders across Akwa Ibom State to what he described as the governor’s deliberate and impactful economic policies targeted at strengthening small and medium-scale enterprises.
According to him, the backing of the trading community which he noted has about 75 percent of voters in Akwa Ibom, is not coincidental but stems from tangible and sustainable programmes implemented by the Governor Eno’s administration to support business growth and economic inclusion. He noted that the governor has consistently demonstrated a commitment to driving economic expansion by harnessing the productive capacity of the people for overall state development.
In his remarks, “Governor Umo Eno has shown himself to be deeply committed to economic growth by ensuring that the potential of the people is fully realised. This is why he is widely regarded as a trader-friendly governor,” Raphael said.
The governor’s aide further explained that the administration has introduced a range of initiatives designed to ease business operations, including the provision of soft loans, business grants and structured training programmes. These interventions, he said, are particularly aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs engaged in small and medium-scale enterprises across the state.
Beyond all the financial and capacity-building support from the government, Akparawa Raphael highlighted ongoing investments in infrastructure as a critical component of the government’s strategy to boost commercial activities.He cited the near completion of the Ikot Ekpene International Market as a key project expected to enhance trade and attract greater growth within the state.
While urging residents to embrace entrepreneurship, Idoreyin Raphael encouraged educated youths not to rely solely on white-collar employment but to explore opportunities in trade and enterprise. Maintaining that active participation in commerce remains one of the most practical pathways to financial independence and a significant contributor to the state’s economic growth.