Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi gave cash grants ranging from N500,000 to N5 million to 250 indigenes of his country home in Uburu, Ohaozara Local government area as start-up capital for their businesses.

Mr Umahi, a senatorial candidate in next month’s poll, doled out the largesse at the 2023 Uburu-day celebration on Wednesday.

The governor charged the beneficiaries to invest properly with the money or risk paying it back to the government as a loan.

He noted that those who utilised theirs would be given more by March 2023, when he would embark on a verification tour of their enterprises.

“We have 200 persons taken from the 14 villages in our communities to be given N500, 000 each.

“18 persons are already empowered with N2 million and 18 others with N5 million.

“So, I will be embarking on inspection tour on what you do with the money by March 2023.

“If you do not utilise the money, we will convert it to loan and you will pay back, but if we are satisfied with your venture, we will give you more,” he advised.

In his address of welcome, Laz Umahi, Traditional Ruler of Uburu autonomous community, commended the governor for the empowerment and the physical, social, economic and psychological well being of the people. 

(NAN)