The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has unveiled a Tree Crops Development Programme, signaling a renewed focus on oil palm revitalization, agro-industrial hubs, and food security, all in a bid to reposition the State for agricultural prosperity in line with the Agricultural Revolution of the ARISE Agenda and revenue diversification.
Governor Eno made the disclosure during a review meeting with the Akwa Ibom State Agriculture and Food Security Committee, held at Government House, Uyo.
The Governor emphasized the urgency of restoring the state’s leadership in oil palm production, expanding tree crop plantations and adopting high-yielding fresh fruit bunches to power agro-based enterprises.
“We must take deliberate steps to harness our natural endowments and move beyond dependence on crude oil. The time to scale up our agricultural infrastructure, especially in tree crops, is now,” the Governor stated.
The revelation followed a presentation by the Agriculture and Food Security Committee, under the leadership of Professor Okon Ansa, outlining key strategies to unlock tree crops development and enhancement of agricultural and land resources across the State.
A cornerstone of the programme includes the full restoration and expansion of the Dakkada Oil Palm Estate, along with the revival of the Domestic Tree Crop Development Scheme to ramp up yields.
Governor Eno directed the Committee to collaborate with the Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation to develop a business case for implementation, issuing a two-week deadline for the submission of a comprehensive action plan to the government.
“This is not just an agricultural intervention; it is a foundational step in building a sustainable economy. We have to be intentional in laying the groundwork for jobs, exports, and sustainable food systems,” he added.
The Tree Crops Development Programme is part of the Governor’s broader ARISE Agenda to boost productivity, generate employment, and ensure long-term economic sustainability for Akwa Ibom State.
Source: IKECHUKWU AGBAMEGBUE, FRCN UYO
