Akwa Ibom State Government, determined to propel the state’s palm oil production to new heights, has taken charge of Dakkada Global Oil Palm Limited, previously known as Akwa Palms Estate.
In light of this development, trespassers have been sternly warned to refrain from
encroaching on the farms, as they will face legal consequences.
During his visit to the palm farm located in six communities spanning Esit Eket, Urueffong Oruko, and Mbo Local Government Areas on Tuesday.
The State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing productivity and development.
The six villages, namely Etebi Idung Asan, Etebi Akwa Ata, Unyanga, Udung Uko, Ntak Inyang, and Orukem, expressed their dedication to surrendering the oil palm plantation to the state government.
Governor Umo Eno addressed the communities, stating that he led a fact-finding mission to assess the progress achieved at the farm for a complete takeover by the government.
He acknowledged the investments made by former Governor Mr. Udom Emmanuel, who entrusted him with the responsibility of revitalizing the plantation as the Executive
Director of Agriculture Investment.
Governor Eno applauded Governor Emmanuel’s foresight in reviving the oil palm farm, acknowledging that the current administration owes its progress to the previous one’s support.
The Governor highlighted the involvement of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in the project, which enabled the state to benefit from the Bank’s Oil Palm Development Initiatives.
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In response, Governor Emmanuel released a sum of two hundred million nairas to facilitate the resuscitation.
Governor Eno expressed gratitude for Governor Emmanuel’s support and mentioned the efforts made to improve the infrastructure of the plantation, including road grading, meetings with community leaders, and engaging the CBN for further support.
Governor Eno commended the Acting Director of Agricultural Investment, Mr. Ofonmbuk Nelson, for effectively managing the farm in his absence.
He debunked the misconception that billions of naira had been invested, clarifying that two hundred million naira had been allocated to the project. He assured the community that retrenched staff had been duly remunerated, except for those with account-related issues, which would be resolved before payment.
The Governor expressed disapproval of the harassment faced by plantation workers from some youths in the host communities.
He urged the communities to support and encourage the lucrative venture of oil palm investment, assuring the youth of employment opportunities and plans to upgrade the plantation’s facilities and security measures.
Governor Eno pledged to construct a security post and provide two patrol vehicles at the farm, emphasizing the importance of maintaining law and order.
The event was welcomed by Rt Hon Iniobong Robinson, Chairman of Esit Eket Local Government Council, who lauded the Governor’s interest in the project and expressed hope that the plantation would receive priority attention from the government.
Dr. Esio Oquong Udo, a former House of Representatives member, also commended Governor Eno for his noble decision to positively impact the lives of the people and believed that the visit would restore the farm’s past glory as a major supplier of palm oil.
Accompanying Governor Uno Eno on the tour were Deputy Governor Sen Akon Eyakenyi, Secretary to the State Government Prince Enobong Uwah, and other high-ranking government officials.
