Gov Eno Launches 620,000 Oil Palm Seedlings Scheme To Drive Wealth Creation In Akwa Ibom
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has launched a major tree crops revolution initiative with the procurement of 620,000 oil palm seedlings for distribution to farmers across the state.
Speaking at the Akwa Ibom Agricultural Development Programme (AKADEP) headquarters in Uyo, Governor Eno said the initiative aligns with the Agricultural Revolution pillar of his ARISE Agenda and is aimed at boosting food security, rural prosperity and economic empowerment.
Describing oil palm as a historic symbol of wealth and enterprise in the region, the Governor said the programme would help restore Akwa Ibom’s agricultural heritage while creating sustainable income for residents.
He disclosed that 500 households have been profiled in each of the state’s 31 local government areas to participate in the scheme, assuring beneficiaries that the investment could begin yielding significant returns within three years.
Governor Eno also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reviving abandoned but economically viable projects, citing the rehabilitation of AKADEP as proof of his resolve to maximise existing assets rather than allow them to decay.
The Governor commended the partnership with the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR), which is supplying the improved seedlings, and urged residents to embrace the programme as a pathway to economic self-reliance.
Stakeholders, including the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Offiong Offor, NIFOR Chief Executive Officer, Dr Gold Leonard Isona, and traditional rulers, praised the initiative, describing it as a bold step towards sustainable agricultural growth and rural development in the state.
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