Residents of Mbaitoli and Ikeduru Federal Constituency in Imo State have benefited from a large-scale empowerment programme initiated by their representative in the House of Representatives, Akarachi Amadi.

The programme involved the distribution of vehicles, agricultural equipment, business tools and cash grants exceeding N200 million to over 10,000 beneficiaries.

Beneficiaries drawn from 63 autonomous communities across the constituency, including traders, farmers, youths, women and community leaders, received minibuses, Sienna vehicles, motorcycles, tricycles, tractors, sewing and grinding machines, generators, deep freezers, fertilisers, food items and more than 60 electricity transformers.

Amadi said the programme was designed in response to the needs of the constituents, noting efforts to boost agriculture and small-scale enterprise development while aligning with national priorities on food security and economic growth.

“Leadership, at its core, is about people. It is about the trust you place in someone and the responsibility that comes with it. What you see here today reflects those conversations we had when I came seeking your votes. Every item is intentional. Every item is tied to a real need as you have requested,” he said.

Distribution of items was carried out in batches, with beneficiaries receiving vehicles for commercial transportation, equipment for small businesses and tools to boost agricultural productivity, while cash grants were disbursed to traders, artisans and entrepreneurs.

Speaking at the event, the Imo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Austin Onyedebelu, commended the initiative, describing it as a demonstration of responsive governance.

“I have looked around, starting from farm implements to transportation equipment, transformers, rice, fertilisers and grinders. I cannot even mention all I have seen here today,” he said.

Also speaking, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, who was represented by a member of the House representing Gummi/Bukkuyum Federal Constituency of Zamfara State, Sulaiman Abubakar Gumi, said the programme reflected Amadi’s commitment to grassroots engagement, youth empowerment and community development.

He said the initiative is a testament to his commitment to uplifting communities and improving the lives of the people.

Beneficiaries commended the initiative, noting that its long-term impact would depend on sustained support, maintenance of distributed assets and access to markets.

They added that beyond individual empowerment, the inclusion of infrastructure items such as transformers would have a wider community impact, particularly in addressing electricity challenges and supporting local economic activities.