By The Publisher
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to agricultural revolution and tourism development as critical enablers of growth and progress in the state.
Speaking at the inauguration of an eight-member Agriculture and Food Security Committee at the State Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Uyo, Governor Eno tasked the committee with driving a food revolution by reviewing the state’s food policies and collaborating with smallholder farmers and other stakeholders to achieve food security and price stability.
The governor, who previously served as Executive Director of the State’s Directorate of Agriculture Investment, emphasized that Akwa Ibom possesses the arable land and resources necessary for self-sufficiency in food production. He called for synergy among relevant stakeholders to ensure sustainable agricultural development.
Highlighting the state’s potential in agriculture, Governor Eno stressed the need for intensified efforts, particularly in the oil palm sector. He challenged the committee to develop a robust database of farmers across the state to facilitate targeted agricultural interventions.
“Let’s see how we can reach out to every farmer in this state. Can you, at the press of a button, reach a farmer in Ini Local Government Area? Can you identify the fish farmer in Mbo? Can we, as a state, predict our expected harvest for cassava, maize, and fish each year?” the governor queried.
Beyond agriculture, Governor Eno reiterated his vision to position Akwa Ibom as a tourism hub through agriculture, sports, health, and other sectors. He urged the Commissioner for Sports to leverage the upcoming maiden Niger Delta Sports Festival to establish an annual sports event in the state.
The governor clarified that the committee’s role does not conflict with that of the Ministry of Agriculture. Instead, he emphasized the need for synergy, noting that the Commissioner for Agriculture is a full member of the committee and would play a crucial role in achieving the set goals.
Congratulating the committee members, Governor Eno expressed confidence in their capabilities, stating that their collective experience and expertise would drive the state towards food security and agricultural transformation
In his response, the committee chairman, Prof. Okon Ansa, a plant virologist and former state commissioner, underscored the importance of food security, asserting that strong nations are those capable of feeding themselves. He appreciated the governor for entrusting them with the responsibility and pledged the committee’s commitment to ensuring Akwa Ibom moves towards food sufficiency.
Other committee members include Prof. Trenchard Ibia, Dr. Etemudo Udongo, Amb. Alphonsus Inyang, Prof. Elizabeth Ebukiba, Pastor Godwin Ukwat, the Commissioner for Agriculture, and the Director of Agriculture Investment, Mr. Ofonmbuk Nelson, who will serve as Secretary.
