Agriculture has been identified as key to transformation of Akwa Ibom State. This was revealed by experts during a tweet convo recently organized by a social media group, #NewAkwaIbom to examine the economic potentials of Akwa Ibom State beyond the Oil regime. The group called on the people of the state to advocate for research and development in the sector to boast industrialization, while pleading with Government to develop policies that will encourage investment in agriculture from private individuals.
A front-line member of the group, Mr. Promise Etim advised the state Government to consider sponsoring graduates in the field of agriculture and agricultural engineering for postgraduate studies overseas to expose the people to new trends and emerging technologies that will lead to rapid development. He said such investment will lead to a paradigm shift from reliance on Oil for sustenance to development in the agricultural sector.
In a separate tweet analysis, another member and convener of the group, Eric Ekwere said Agricultural development with view of industrialization can be achieved if the synergy is encouraged through Public Private Partnership. He called on relevant stakeholders to see Agriculture as the best alternative to crude oil for industrial branding.
The member representing Nsit Ubium Constituency in the State House of Assembly, Barr. Onofiok Luke stressed the need for reintroduction of relevant Agricultural programs in Primary and Secondary school. He said he learnt moulding of ridges and farming in his primary school days and tasked heads of schools in the state to embrace practical Agriculture as a relevant tool for learning and development. The lawmaker also added that the state should consider developing a model agro value addition chain for crop processing, animal husbandry and fish farming.
Others who contributed in the Tweet-Convo used the medium to call on Government to consider a review of the land use act, which they said was responsible for poor agricultural mechanization in the state. They also identified some problems impairing development in the sector to include: lack of storage and processing facilities for harvested products, rural and urban drift, poor agricultural policy framework and non-availability of funds for local farmers to aid social and economic well-being.
The #NewAkwaIbom Tweet-Convo holds every Tuesday from 5pm.
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