Akakan Umoh
Stakeholders in the agricultural sector have been enjoined to work in unity toward achieving food sufficiency in Akwa Ibom State.
The Director and Head of Agricultural Investment at the Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation (AKICORP), Mr. Ofonmbuk Nelson gave the charge when the Chairman and members of Agro Input Dealers Association of Nigeria (NAIDA), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, visited him in his office on Thursday, April 23.
Nelson who currently serves as the Secretary of the Akwa Ibom State Agriculture and Food Security Committee stated that the Ministry of Agriculture is working tirelessly with the State Government to ensure all components of the agricultural sector function effectively toward achieving food security.
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He lauded the key agricultural projects of Governor Umo Eno aimed at strengthening the agricultural sector, hoping that with the support of the Governor, tractors and other agricultural machinery have been secured to improve service delivery
The Director assured to communicate the challenges of the association to the appropriate authorities and provide feedbacks.
Nelson emphasized that agro-dealers play critical role in the agricultural value chain in Akwa Ibom State, urging them to be alive to their responsibility.
In his remarks, Hon. Amos Udom stressed the need for the State Government to collaborate closely with agro-dealers, noting that they serve as the final link between inputs and farmers.
Udom stated that agro-dealers in the state are well-equipped, duly registered, and licensed to operate efficiently without hindrance.
Based on their track record of partnerships with NGOs and the Federal Government in agricultural extension services and input distribution, he urged the State Government to trust NAIDA members with the distribution of agro-inputs, seeds, and seedlings.
Also speaking, Mr. Ibanga James, an Agro-dealer, emphasized the importance of the 4Rs of fertilizer application: Right source, Right rate (quantity), Right time and Right method.
He noted that agro-dealers possess the necessary knowledge to educate farmers effectively on best practices.
The meeting was attended by Mr Author Ekpowa, Mr Victor Etiebiet, Chief Ibanga Edet, Chief David Bassey, Mr Nsisong Bassey, Mr Victor Tom, Pastor Mrs Jessy David Bassey and Mr Victor Etiebet.
