The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has approved N2.5 billion for the procurement of over 620,000 palm seedlings for distribution to farmers across the state.
The move is part of a broader strategy to boost agricultural productivity, create jobs, and strengthen the state’s economic base, while supporting registered farmers in all 31 local government areas.
The approval was given on Wednesday during the March Projects Delivery Meeting held at the Government House, Uyo, where Governor Eno reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to timely project delivery and sustainable development.
Speaking at the meeting, Eno said the initiative would directly benefit registered farmers across the state, adding that a formal launch of the programme would be announced in due course.
“We are committed to growing our agricultural sector in a sustainable way. This investment in oil palm seedlings is a deliberate step to create jobs, support our farmers, and expand the state’s economic base,” the governor said.
He stressed the need for stronger collaboration among ministries, departments, and agencies to enhance service delivery, noting that “we must break silos and work together if we are to achieve the level of development we desire as a state.”
Eno also directed the constitution of an inter-ministerial committee to fast-track the completion and commissioning of Youth Friendly Centres across the state.
On power, the governor attributed current electricity challenges to low generation nationwide but assured residents of ongoing efforts to improve supply.
“The power situation we are experiencing is largely due to low generation across the country. However, we are engaging relevant stakeholders and putting in place clear roadmaps to ensure Akwa Ibom takes full advantage of opportunities in the power sector,” he said.
A total of 55 projects were reviewed during the meeting, with timelines set for their completion and commissioning. Key projects include the Governor’s Office Annex, AKWA-GIS House, Ibom International Convention Centre, Ibom International Hotel, Itam Industrial Park, and the International Market in Ikot Ekpene.
Other projects under review include the rehabilitation of AKADEP Head Office, Youth Friendly Centres, Arise Palm Resort, Judiciary Village, Chairman’s Lodge, a 350-bed International Hospital, and key airport infrastructure.
The Commissioner for Works also disclosed that 10 road projects spanning 58.5 kilometres have been completed and are ready for commissioning in May 2026, as part of the over 1,300 kilometres of road projects being executed across the state.
The meeting was attended by top government officials, including the Deputy Governor, Akon Eyakenyi; Secretary to the State Government, Enobong Uwah, and other members of the state executive council.
Stakeholders at the meeting, including women and youth representatives, commended the administration’s financial discipline and urged the governor to sustain the pace of development.
In his remarks, former Deputy Governor Nsima Ekere praised the administration’s performance, while state party chairman Stephen Ntukekpo described the governor’s achievements as unprecedented.
In his closing remarks, Eno appreciated stakeholders for their contributions, saying, “We will continue to do our best to deliver on the ARISE Agenda and ensure that our people feel the impact of governance.” He reiterated his administration’s commitment to sustaining development across sectors for the benefit of the people of Akwa Ibom.
