The Cross River State Government has disbursed ₦250 million in entrepreneurial grants to 500 retirees from the state civil service, with each beneficiary receiving ₦500,000 to start small-scale businesses.
The initiative aims to empower retirees with sustainable income-generating ventures to complement their monthly pensions, which Governor Bassey Otu affirmed are still being paid regularly.
Speaking during the presentation of cheques in Calabar, Governor Otu—represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey—emphasized that the grant is not for daily upkeep but a means to promote post-retirement self-reliance.
He urged beneficiaries to channel the funds into viable businesses that can keep them productive and financially stable.
“To remain idle while awaiting pension payments is not ideal. This grant can support a small business that keeps you active and independent,” he said.
The governor also revealed plans to introduce a bill at the State House of Assembly for the establishment of Senior Citizens Development Centres in Calabar, Ikom, and Ogoja.
The centres will support retirees and ensure the continuity of the empowerment programme.
One of the beneficiaries, Madam Ako Essien, a retired fire service officer, expressed gratitude to the government for its compassion.
She admitted that retirees were initially skeptical about the initiative, but their doubts faded after completing a three-month training programme.
“While waiting for the grant, I conducted a market survey and decided to invest in a poultry feed business,” she said, praising the administration for its support.
The programme is part of the Otu-led government’s broader plan to improve the welfare and dignity of senior citizens in Cross River State.
