The Governor of Akwa Ibom, Umo Eno says his administration will implement a new tree crops development programme as part of its economic diversification plan.
Eno made the disclosure at a review meeting with the Akwa Ibom State Agriculture and Food Security Committee in Uyo on Thursday.
He said that the programme would signal a renewed focus on oil palm revitalisation, agro-industrial hubs and food security in the state.
The governor further said that the move would reposition the state for agricultural prosperity in line with his administration’s ARISE Agenda.
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“We need to restore our state’s leadership position in oil palm production. We shall expand tree crop plantations and adopt 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,” he said.
He directed the committee to submit a comprehensive action plan to the state government within two weeks.
Earlier, the committee Chairman, Prof. Okon Ansa, outlined key strategies to enhance tree crops and land resources development in the state.
Ansa said that in the course of the programme, existing oil palm estates would be fully restored and expanded.
“The programme will also include the revival of domestic tree crop development schemes for improved yields,” he said.