The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has approved the sum of ₦2.5 billion for the procurement of over 620,000 palm seedlings for distribution to farmers across the state, as part of efforts to boost agricultural productivity and economic growth.
The approval was announced on Tuesday during the March Projects Delivery Meeting held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo, where the Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to timely execution of projects and sustainable development.
Governor Eno disclosed that the seedlings would be distributed to registered farmers in all 31 local government areas, noting that the initiative forms a key component of his administration’s agricultural development strategy. He added that a formal launch of the programme would be announced in due course.
At the meeting, the Governor reviewed progress on 86 priority projects, excluding roads, hospitals, and schools, and called for stronger collaboration among ministries, departments, and agencies to enhance service delivery. He also directed the establishment of an inter-ministerial committee to ensure the completion and commissioning of Youth Friendly Centres across the state.
Addressing the state’s electricity challenges, Governor Eno attributed the current situation to low power generation nationwide and assured that his administration is actively engaging stakeholders in the power sector to improve supply. He reiterated plans for Akwa Ibom State to take greater control of its electricity market through ongoing reforms.
A total of 55 projects were assessed during the session, with timelines and commissioning dates clearly outlined. Key projects reviewed include the Governor’s Office Annex, AKWA-GIS House, Ibom International Convention Centre, Ibom International Hotel, Itam Industrial Park, International Market in Ikot Ekpene, and the 350-bed International Hospital.
Others are the Judiciary Village, Chairman’s Lodge, Security and Command Center, Court of Appeal Complex, AKBC House, Arise Palm Resort, Arise Shopping City, Ibom Farms, and the Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, alongside several agricultural and housing initiatives.
In the area of infrastructure, the Commissioner for Works presented a report indicating that 10 additional road projects spanning 58.5 kilometres have been completed and are scheduled for commissioning in May 2026. This is part of the over 1,300 kilometres of road projects undertaken by the administration.
The meeting was attended by top government officials, including the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; and other commissioners, delivery advisors, and stakeholders.
Participants, including representatives of women and youth groups, commended the administration for its prudent management of resources and urged the Governor to sustain the pace of development. Former Deputy Governor, Obong Nsima Ekere, and State Party Chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, also lauded the Governor’s leadership, describing it as purposeful and impactful.
In his closing remarks, Governor Eno thanked stakeholders for their contributions and reaffirmed his commitment to delivering on the ARISE Agenda for the overall development and prosperity of Akwa Ibom State.
By Ndifreke Bassey