The Cross River State Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency (MEDA) celebrated the indomitable spirit of entrepreneurship at the inaugural People First Enterprise Awards
Where was the first Cross River State Maiden People First Enterprise Awards Held?
Cross River State Maiden People First Enterprise Awards Held at the prestigious Calabar Metropolitan Hotel, the event honored individuals and businesses that have made significant contributions to the state’s economic landscape.
From the vibrant creative industry to the backbone of the state’s economy, technology, agriculture, trade, and logistics, the award winners were recognized for their courage, resilience, and innovative spirit. The event was a testament to the thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Cross River State.
Business leaders, industry experts, and aspiring entrepreneurs gathered to honor the achievements of their peers. The event was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including the State Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, represented by Dr. Bong Duke, Vice Chairman of the State Planning Commission (SPC) as well as the Chief Whip of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Hillary Bisong.
Governor Otu emphasized the state’s commitment to fostering a robust business environment and positioning Cross River State as the region’s economic hub. He assured attendees that the government will continue to implement policies and initiatives that support entrepreneurship and economic growth.
The evening was filled with excitement and inspiration. In addition to the award ceremony, the event featured captivating musical performances by talented local artists, elevating the atmosphere and captivating the audience.
The People First Enterprise Awards not only recognized outstanding achievements but also ignited a sense of community and camaraderie among entrepreneurs. As Cross River State continues to evolve as a hub for innovation and enterprise, events like these play a crucial role in inspiring and empowering the next generation of business leaders.
The People First Enterprise Awards winners list 2024 are:
1. Agriculture and Value Chain Entrepreneur of the Year Farming (Production): Mr Liyel Imoukhuede
2. Processing and Packaging: Mrs Josephine Charlse Ushie
3. Processing: Okon Ekpa
4. Overall Entrepreneur of the Year: Crispy Chicken
5. Creative Entrepreneur of the Year – Beauty and Skincare: Cephora Cosmetics
6. Photography: NK Imagery
7. Event and Concepts – YettyParty Affairs
8. Comedy and Content – Patrick Dominic
9. Fashion and Styling – Dr Uwama Nnochiri
10. Digital Accellerator of the Year – Oyo Effiom (Guru Innovation Hub)
11. Hardware – CY.com
12. Infrastructure – Patrick Ndifon
13. ICT: Effiong Ekanem
14. Tech and innovation: Ugi Augustine Ugi Jr
15. Transport and Logistics – Dr Aniefiok Iton
16. Wholesale, Retail and Distributor – John Uzoh
17. Professional of the Year: Legal – Daniel Kip
18. Engineering – Francis Akpak Ogudu (arc) BLADESANDEDGES
19. Accounting – Daniel Pameda
20. Academic – Prof Raphael Offiong
21. Social Entrepreneur of the Year – Florence Agogo
22. Tech and innovation Entrepreneur of the Year – Ugi Augustine
23. Start Up Entrepreneur of the Year – Praise Ajebgor CEO Grey Co-lab
24. Community, Social and Impact Personality of the Year Rev Father Emmanuel Bekomson
25. Lifetime Achievement Award Eyo Okpo-Ene
