The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, has disclosed his administration’s intention to partner with Blackrock Farms in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area to scale up agricultural production. 

Governor Eno made this announcement after visiting local government farms in Nsit Ibom and Nsit Ubium, as well as the Songhai Model Farm. 

He emphasized his administration’s commitment to supporting young people who are ready and willing to venture into agriculture and other commercially rewarding enterprises for the overall benefit of the state.

Governor Eno expressed delight at the natural environment where the farm’s fishes are bred and commended the farm’s Chief Executive, Mr. Obot Isaiah Obot, for his ingenuity and interest in investing in the state. 

He described Mr. Obot as an embodiment of the ARISE spirit and encouraged young people to emulate him by contributing to the development of the state.

The governor directed the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Offiong Offor, to liaise with Mr. Obot and explore areas of partnership that would enable the farm to achieve its full potential.

Speaking with Government House correspondents, Mr. Obot, a Nigerian-American who relocated to the state about three years ago from California, said, “The farm is a memorial of my late father’s humble beginnings and a way of giving back to my community by creating jobs and adding value to the great work the government under the leadership of Governor Umo Eno has been doing for the people.” 

He added, “This farm is connected to a natural water source and can produce over 600,000 different breeds of fish per annum. It also runs a piggery, poultry, and many other agricultural ventures.”

Mr. Obot, a native of Afia Nsit Urua Nko in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, described the visit by Governor Eno as a “great honor and motivation,” promising to redouble efforts to scale up production and business operations on the farm. 

He commended the governor for prioritizing agriculture, which he said would make staple foods readily available and affordable in the state in the long run.