The Akwa Ibom State Government says it will in 2026 launch a Tree Crop Revolution aimed at empowering farmers across all local government areas, strengthening rural economies, and ensuring food security in the state.
The policy direction was outlined by the governor during his New Year address on January 1, where agriculture was identified as a core priority for the new year. He said the administration would continue to place strong emphasis on farming as part of efforts to protect livelihoods, stabilise food supply, and support economic activities in rural communities across the state.
According to the governor, the 2026 plan is to deepen investment in agriculture as a way of ensuring food security for residents. He stated, “We will continue to invest strongly in agriculture to ensure food security,” stressing that farming remains central to the state’s growth strategy.
The Tree Crop Revolution is expected to run across all local government areas, with a focus on empowering farmers through long-term agricultural activities. The governor explained that the initiative is designed to move beyond short-term interventions and instead help farmers build sustainable sources of income.
He said, “This year, we will launch our Tree Crop Revolution to empower farmers across all Local Government Areas to create generational wealth and strengthen our rural economy,” noting that rural development remains a key outcome of the programme.
The administration linked the Tree Crop Revolution to broader efforts aimed at strengthening rural economies, where farming remains a major source of employment. Officials say improved agricultural productivity is expected to support household incomes, reduce economic pressure on urban centres, and encourage residents to remain and invest in rural areas.
The governor also positioned agriculture as a stabilising factor for food supply in the state, especially as economic conditions continue to challenge households. By expanding tree crop farming, the government believes farmers will benefit from crops that mature over time and provide more consistent returns.
The agricultural focus outlined in the New Year address aligns with the administration’s wider rural development agenda for 2026. The government has repeatedly stated that peace, infrastructure, and agriculture are interconnected, with farming seen as a practical tool for grassroots economic inclusion.
