Akwa Ibom reaffirms commitment to agribusiness as catalyst for export growth

By Busola Bamidele

In a renewed push to position agriculture as a key driver of economic growth, the Akwa Ibom State Government has reiterated its commitment to leveraging agribusiness to boost its export promotion efforts.

This was made known during the inauguration of the Local Organising Committee for the 4th Agribusiness Conference held at the Ministry of Trade and Investment in Uyo, the state capital.

The event marks another step in the state’s ongoing collaboration with private sector stakeholders to revitalize agribusiness and attract investment.

Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Mr. Ubong Inyang, represented by the Director of Industries, Essien Ibanga, expressed optimism that this year’s conference would further unlock the potential of agriculture as a profitable business venture.

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He noted that the agribusiness initiatives, if effectively implemented, could significantly transform the sector and enhance the state’s export capabilities.

Inyang also revealed that development partners have shown interest in supporting strategic projects under the agribusiness scheme, including the proposed establishment of a Centre for Innovative Agriculture in Akwa Ibom.

Speaking at the inauguration, Mr. Howard Usen, Zonal Coordinator of the Nigeria Agribusiness and Agro Industry Development Initiative (NADDI) and facilitator of the conference, highlighted the importance of building on the successes of past conferences.

He emphasized that the 4th roundtable would focus on exploring areas where the state has a comparative advantage to strengthen its export profile.

Usen commended the state government for its sustained support, stating that its proactive role from the inception of the agribusiness conference has been instrumental in driving interest and investment in the sector.

The newly inaugurated committee includes directors from the Ministry of Trade and Investment as well as key players from the agribusiness sector, tasked with organizing a successful and impactful conference.