Eteng Williams (APC-Cross River) on Friday announced a cash gift of N76.5 million and 1,200 bags of rice to his constituents.

Williams, representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, announced this during his tour of localities in the district.

The localities visited include Boki, Etung, Abi, Obubra, Ikom, and Yakurr LGAs in the district.

He described the initiative as part of his commitment to sharing the dividends of democracy and easing economic pressure on constituents during the festive season.

According to the lawmaker, Boki, Etung, and Abi LGAs will each receive N12.5 million and 200 bags of rice, while Obubra, Ikom, and Yakurr will each receive N13 million and 200 bags of rice.

He explained that beneficiaries of the intervention would include persons with disabilities, women, youths, support groups, traditional rulers, and other critical stakeholders within the constituency.

Speaking at separate stakeholder meetings across the district, Mr Williams said the annual yuletide outreach was designed to strengthen bonds with the people and to provide him with firsthand insight into their needs and expectations.

He expressed appreciation to his constituents for their sustained support, urging them to remain resilient in the face of economic challenges. He also assured them of increased attention to their welfare and development needs going forward.

Stakeholders across the localities commended the lawmaker for what they described as people-centred leadership and consistent grassroots engagement.

In Yakurr, the council chairman, Yibala Bassey, praised the senator for touring all local government areas in the district, describing the gesture as a reflection of inclusive representation.

He assured the council of the council’s continued support ahead of the 2027 general elections.

At the Abi council hall, the LG chairman, Egballa Bassey, lauded Mr Williams’ performance, noting that several young men and women in the locality had benefited from his scholarship scheme.

He disclosed that the people of Abi remained firmly behind the senator and urged him to intensify efforts to attract development projects, particularly from the Niger Delta Development Commission.

He also revealed that communities in Abi have embraced peace, and that the locality is safe and welcoming for contractors.

In Obubra, community leader, Alex Ireck, commended the lawmaker for identifying with the people during the festive season, describing the visit as reassuring and timely.

He expressed hope that the engagement would open new opportunities for Obubra indigenes, especially through the execution of projects by local contractors, while reaffirming the community’s support for the lawmaker.

(NAN)