200 trained ex-militants to receive monetary empowerment, others to join army – Commissioner

By Akpan David, Calabar

Cross River State Commissioner for Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, Mr Patrick Egbede has confirmed that 200 former militants have been trained on Innovative and Integrative Agricultural chain.

He said they were trained at the CSS Farms in Nasarawa State, disclosing that they will soon receive commensurate financial disbursements to enable them plough into their agric schemes. 

He informed that the state governor, Prince Bassey Otu has already approved  money for the empowerment and kitting.

He made this disclosure when the Chairman, Cross River State House of Assembly Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Hon Okon Nyong Owuna and his members visited the ministry yesterday on oversight functions. 

He disclosed further that over 1000 other citizens have been profiled for recruitment into the Nigerian Army Regular Intake.

Recall that few years ago, large number of militants were made to surrender their arms some years ago after assurance of state supports through training and empowerment. 

The Commissioner further informed that, 200 beneficiaries were recently empowered with POS Machines, 2 chairs each, umbrellas and tables, and 100 citizens trained on  ICT.

According to the Commissioner, 10 indigenous MSMEs have also been profiled and their NAFDAC registration paid by the State government.

The House committee applauded the State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu for his commitment to providing employment and empowerment for citizens.

Okon Owuna, the Committee chairman explained that they came to assess the Mid -Year Budget Performance in the ministry.