RismadarVoice Reporters, April 29, 2026
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has inaugurated an ultra-modern agricultural equipment leasing facility in Ekpri Nsukara, Uyo, as part of efforts to drive mechanised farming and enhance food production across the state.
Speaking at the unveiling of the Ibom Equipment Leasing Facility on Wednesday, the Governor said the initiative aligns with his administration’s ARISE Agenda, aimed at strengthening food security, increasing agricultural output, and reducing the cost of food.
Governor Eno noted that the facility would catalyse transforming agriculture from subsistence to commercial-scale production, urging farmers, cooperatives, and agribusiness operators to leverage the opportunity.
“This facility is primed to help our farmers move from peasant farming to commercial-scale production. Agriculture must no longer be seen as a subsistence venture, but as a business with strong economic returns,” he said.
The Governor also revealed that the Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) has been engaged to manage the Ibom Model Farms and greenhouses located along Airport Road, a move he said would enhance research, capacity building, and productivity within the agricultural sector.
Emphasising the need to attract young people to farming, Governor Eno described the equipment leasing initiative as the first phase of broader interventions designed to make agriculture more appealing and profitable for youths.
The facility is equipped with modern infrastructure, including administrative buildings, a maintenance workshop, tractor bays, a fleet of tractors with implements, and low-bed trailers to support efficient service delivery. It will provide equipment leasing for land preparation as well as technical support for farmers and agribusinesses.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Offiong Offor, presented an overview of the project, while the General Manager of the facility, Engr. Ifiok Ekot, assured stakeholders of effective and sustainable management.
Stakeholders from Uyo Local Government Area commended the initiative, describing it as a significant step toward agricultural transformation in the state. Goodwill messages were delivered by the Paramount Ruler of Uyo, Edidem Sylvanus Okon; the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Anieti Udofia; the Village Head of Ekpri Nsukara; and former Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Mr Monday Eyo.
The project underscores the state government’s commitment to modernising agriculture and creating opportunities for economic growth through increased productivity and youth participation.
