Governor Umo Eno has inaugurated an agriculture committee to enhance food production and security in Akwa Ibom, reducing dependence on imports
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has launched an eight-member agriculture committee to strengthen food production and security across the state. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on food supplies from other states and unlock the full potential of Akwa Ibom’s rich land resources.
Despite its vast arable land, the state still depends on food imports from states such as Edo, Delta, Cross River, and Benue. To address this, the newly formed committee has been tasked with engaging smallholder farmers and agricultural stakeholders to enhance local food production and stabilise prices.
Speaking at the inauguration, Governor Eno highlighted the need for a more strategic approach to farming, particularly in the oil palm sector. He urged committee members to ensure every farmer in the state is accessible and accounted for.
“Can you, at the press of a button, reach a farmer in Ini Local Government Area? Can you know the fish farmer in Mbo? Can we, as a state, determine our expected harvest for cassava, maize, fish, and other staples each year?” he asked.
The Governor also reiterated his broader vision of transforming Akwa Ibom into a tourism hub through various sectors, including agriculture, sports, and healthcare.
He encouraged the Commissioner for Sports to capitalise on the upcoming Niger Delta Sports Festival to establish an annual sporting event in the state.
Emphasising that the new committee would complement rather than compete with the Ministry of Agriculture, he assured that collaboration between both bodies would be key to achieving food sufficiency.
Chairman of the committee, Prof. Okon Ansa, a plant virologist and former state commissioner, acknowledged the crucial role food security plays in a nation’s strength.
He assured the Governor that the committee would work diligently to achieve its mandate and move the state towards self-sufficiency.
Other committee members include Prof. Trenchard Ibia, Dr. Etemudo Udongo, Ambassador Alphonsus Inyang, Prof. Elizabeth Ebukiba, Pastor Godwin Ukwat, the State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Offiong Offiong, and the Director of Agriculture Investment, Mr. Ofonmbuk Nelson, who will serve as secretary.
While the move has been widely welcomed, analysts remain cautious about its potential impact. Similar committees have been formed in the past with little tangible success.
The true test will be in the execution—ensuring that strategies are not only developed but effectively implemented to deliver lasting agricultural transformation in Akwa Ibom.
Business3 years ago
