In a bid to promote mechanised agriculture and boost food production in Akwa Ibom State, Governor Umo Eno has commissioned an Agricultural Equipment Leasing Facility at Ekpri-Nsukara in Uyo, the state capital.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the governor described the facility as a fulfilment of his campaign promise, noting that it marks a new phase in agricultural development in the state.
According to him, “The equipment leasing centre is expected to drive mechanised farming, improve food production, and support farmers across the state.”
Governor Eno commended Engr. Loye Ogar and her construction team for the successful delivery of the state-of-the-art facility, describing the project as a major step in the state’s agricultural transformation drive.
He noted that Engr. Ogar demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism throughout the construction process, adding that she represents a strong example of women’s contributions to development.
The governor also lauded the facility’s manager, Engr. Ifiok Ekott, for effectively interpreting the vision behind the project. He expressed satisfaction with the execution and pledged to return in six months for an assessment.
Eno further announced that the management of the ongoing Ibom Model Farm and greenhouses would be transferred to the Faculty of Agriculture at Akwa Ibom State University. He added that the institution’s dean would be provided accommodation within the facility.
The governor disclosed that farmers in the state would access the equipment at subsidised rates of over 50 percent.
He also urged local government chairmen to support farmers by facilitating access to the tractors, recommending a supervised rotational system across communities.
According to him, 25 tractors have been provided for the scheme, and he called on farmers to take full advantage of the opportunity to boost productivity.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Offiong Offor, described the commissioning as a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to reposition the agricultural sector for productivity and sustainability.
Providing an overview of the project, Offor said the facility would offer structured leasing services for farm equipment aimed at supporting farmers and enhancing mechanised agriculture across the state.
She disclosed that the tractors deployed to the centre are fitted with tracking devices to ensure accountability and efficient usage. She added that two low-bed trailers have also been provided to facilitate the movement of heavy equipment to farms.
The commissioner expressed appreciation to the governor for his continued support for farmers through grants and other interventions, describing the administration’s commitment as pivotal to the sector’s growth.
In his remarks, the manager of the Ibom Equipment Leasing Facility, Engr. Ifiok Ekott, thanked stakeholders in the agricultural sector and the Akwa Ibom State Government for their support in delivering the project.
Ekott pledged to present a mid-year report in six months and expressed confidence that the state’s agricultural sector would witness significant transformation.
