Hon. Linda Somiari Kicks Off Intervention Scheme, Awards ₦10 Million Each to Okrika Community Kings for Empowerment

Hon. Linda Somiari Stewart, the Honourable Member representing Okrika Constituency in the Rivers State House of Assembly, has officially launched a major community intervention scheme aimed at strengthening grassroots development and empowering traditional institutions across Okrika.

Empowering Traditional Leadership

As part of the initiative, Hon. Linda awarded ₦10 million each to the kings of Okrika communities to support empowerment programs tailored to the specific needs of their people. The intervention is designed to promote economic growth, community stability, and inclusive development at the grassroots level.

Partnership with Traditional Rulers

Speaking during the presentation, Hon. Linda emphasized the importance of working closely with traditional rulers, describing them as critical partners in driving sustainable development and ensuring that empowerment initiatives reach the intended beneficiaries.

"This intervention is about strengthening our communities from within. Our traditional rulers understand the needs of their people, and empowering them to lead community-based initiatives ensures accountability, inclusiveness, and long-term impact," she stated.

Community Response and Expectations

Community leaders, youths, and women groups have applauded the initiative, describing it as a bold step toward improving livelihoods and fostering unity across Okrika communities. The scheme is expected to support small businesses, skill acquisition programs, and social welfare projects within the communities.

Strategic Grassroots Development

Hon. Linda reaffirmed her commitment to people-centered representation, noting that the intervention scheme is part of her broader agenda to deliver tangible benefits, promote economic empowerment, and enhance the wellbeing of the Okrika constituency.

Implementation and Impact

The ₦10 million awards to each community king will be deployed toward:

• Small Business Development: Supporting local entrepreneurs and micro-businesses
• Skill Acquisition Programs: Training initiatives for youth and community members
• Social Welfare Projects: Programs addressing healthcare, education, and community welfare
• Infrastructure Development: Small-scale community improvement projects

A Model for Grassroots Empowerment

This intervention scheme represents an innovative approach to community development that leverages traditional leadership structures while providing the resources needed for meaningful change. By empowering community kings with significant funding and decision-making authority, Hon. Somiari Stewart is creating a sustainable framework for grassroots development that respects local customs and ensures community ownership of development initiatives.

Long-Term Vision

The scheme is designed to create a ripple effect of development, where empowered traditional leaders become catalysts for positive change, driving economic growth and social improvement from the ground up. This approach ensures that development initiatives are culturally appropriate, community-driven, and sustainable.