Gov. Umo Eno Hands Ibom Model Farm to AKSU, Unveils Agro-Tourism Strategy to Strengthen Food Security

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has transferred the management of the Ibom Model Farm to Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) as part of efforts to deepen agricultural development, enhance food security, and position the state as a hub for agro-tourism. Speaking during an inspection of the facility, the Governor explained that the decision reflects his administration's confidence in the university's technical capacity to operate the farm as a modern agricultural and research centre, while the State Ministry of Agriculture will provide supervisory oversight to ensure compliance with government policies and operational standards.

Governor Eno disclosed that government has reached an advanced stage in providing the infrastructure required for the farm to commence full operations, expressing optimism that the partnership with AKSU will transform the facility into a model of sustainable agricultural production and innovation. According to him, the Ibom Model Farm is designed to go beyond conventional farming by integrating agriculture with tourism and recreation. He noted that the serene environment and modern layout of the facility would create opportunities for visitors to relax, learn modern farming techniques, and participate in agricultural-related activities while boosting food production.

The Governor described the initiative as a practical demonstration of his administration's commitment to diversifying the state's economy through agriculture, adding that the project would contribute to employment generation, research, skills development, and increased local food production.

He revealed that the concept was inspired by the internationally acclaimed Songhai Farm model, but expressed confidence that Akwa Ibom State University possesses the academic expertise, research capability, and professional manpower needed to successfully manage and expand the project.

Governor Eno further announced plans to establish additional model farms across the state's three senatorial districts, disclosing that similar facilities are being proposed for Ini Local Government Area to serve Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District and Eastern Obolo Local Government Area for Eket Senatorial District.

The Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Offiong Offor, said the vision behind the Ibom Model Farm extends beyond agricultural production, explaining that the facility is expected to serve as a centre for capacity building, innovation, agribusiness development, and agro-tourism while supporting the state's broader food security objectives. She noted that the project would provide practical learning opportunities for students, farmers, entrepreneurs, and agricultural professionals, while attracting visitors interested in modern farming and eco-tourism.

Responding on behalf of the university, the Vice Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University, Prof. Otoabasi Akpan, assured the state government that the institution would deploy its expertise to ensure the success of the project. He stated that the university would leverage its Faculty of Agriculture, researchers, and extension specialists to transform the farm into a centre of excellence capable of driving agricultural innovation, research, and sustainable food production.

Prof. Akpan added that the initiative aligns with the agricultural revolution component of the ARISE Agenda and would play a significant role in improving food security, creating economic opportunities, and advancing agricultural education in Akwa Ibom State. The handover represents another step in the state government's efforts to modernise agriculture by combining education, research, commercial farming, tourism, and youth empowerment into a unified development strategy.

ℙℝ𝕆𝔾ℝ𝔼𝕊𝕊 𝕍𝕀𝔼𝕎𝕊 𝕀ℕ𝕊𝕀𝔾ℍ𝕋𝕊

The transfer of the Ibom Model Farm to Akwa Ibom State University reflects a strategic shift from government-managed agriculture to institution-driven innovation. By placing the facility under academic management, the state is positioning research, technology, and practical learning at the centre of agricultural development.

The Governor's broader vision of replicating similar model farms across the three senatorial districts also signals a long-term commitment to decentralising agricultural investment, strengthening food production, and creating new economic opportunities in rural communities.

If successfully implemented, the initiative could become a reference point for integrating higher education, agribusiness, agro-tourism, and sustainable food systems, while supporting the ARISE Agenda's goal of making agriculture a major driver of economic growth in Akwa Ibom State.