- Governor Eno warns civil servants of severe consequences for misusing designated farming days, emphasizing agricultural self-sufficiency
- Local government collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture trains young farmers, enhancing growth, aiming for state food sufficiency
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has warned civil servants about the misuse of designated farming days, which occur on the first and third Fridays of each month. This initiative aims to promote agricultural self-sufficiency in the state.
During an inspection of local government demonstration farms at the Nsit Ibom and Nsit Ubium Council Secretariats, Governor Eno emphasized the importance of food self-sufficiency and urged all residents to produce enough food to meet their families’ needs.
Governor Eno clarified that civil servants who do not adhere to this directive will face severe consequences. This reinforces the government’s commitment to boosting agricultural productivity.
He stressed the need for everyone to return to farming to reduce the price of staple foods. The governor, impressed by the achievements of the Hon. Otobong Aaron-led Transition Committee in Nsit Ibom, visited the farms to see the progress firsthand.
Governor Eno praised Hon. Aaron and the Transition Committee for supporting the agricultural revolution. He encouraged ward chairmen to replicate these efforts in their areas to achieve food sufficiency goals.
The governor highlighted the effective collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and Nsit Ibom Local Government Council. This partnership trains young people in agriculture, enhancing growth and productivity.
Appreciating the residents who welcomed him, Governor Eno stated that his visit was part of a broader strategy to expand the farming initiative. He emphasized that returning to farming is key to solving the current food crisis, given the state’s fertile land and favourable conditions.
“I am happy and grateful to the Chairman of Nsit Ibom Local Government for her dedication. This effort reflects her commitment to our vision,” said Governor Eno. He noted that reports from the House of Assembly inspection motivated him to visit and see the progress himself.
Governor Eno praised the synergy between local and state agricultural efforts, particularly in training young farmers and providing them with seeds. He stressed that this approach will help Nsit Ibom Local Government achieve self-sufficiency in food production.
The governor expressed satisfaction with cultivating okra, tomatoes, pepper, yam, corn, and cucumber on the farms. He urged everyone to be diligent in farming, as food is a basic need.
Acknowledging the efforts of the Local Government Chairman, Governor Eno pledged support to complete the council office complex initiated by past administrations. He commended the council for effectively using its funds.
Commissioner for Agriculture Dr. Offiong Offor stated that her ministry is ready to assist council areas with the necessary inputs and manpower to fast-track food sufficiency in the state.
Hon. Aaron, describing the governor’s visit as a morale booster, expressed her commitment to ensuring even development and achieving Governor Umo Eno’s administration’s food sufficiency goals.