August 31, 2025 – Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced plans to launch an unprecedented oil palm tree planting revolution in line with the agricultural revolution component of the ARISE Agenda. The Governor made this known while addressing the Convention Victory Service at the All Nations Christian Ministry International, Eket, during the conclusion of the 21st Anniversary and Discovery Convention of the church.
Governor Eno said the State Committee on Food Security has recommended a detailed template for the oil palm initiative. According to him, the program will involve the distribution of improved seedlings, deployment of extension officers in the planting process, establishment of an oil palm board, and the off-taking of processed oil from different producers.
The Governor, who had served as the Executive Director of Agriculture Investment at the Akwa Ibom State Investment Corporation (AKICORP), explained that the initiative is targeted at boosting the economy and empowering citizens. He noted that the improved seedlings have high yield capacity and begin to fruit within two years.
He stressed that Akwa Ibom has dropped from number one to number four in oil palm production in the country and must reclaim its pride of place. In his words, “This initiative is a way of putting money in the hands of our people. We need to take back our leading position in oil palm production.”
Governor Eno further called on young people to take advantage of job opportunities in the State rather than complain about unemployment. “Let our young people stop complaining that there are no jobs. Right now, we are building over 305 houses across this State, and our young people are being engaged and employed. Please find something to do,” he said.
Speaking on empowerment, the Governor clarified issues concerning the recently published list of support groups and beneficiaries of different empowerment packages. He stated that the funds were not given to group heads or leaders to share, but to individuals who applied through the ARISE portal and had registered as members of support groups.
He assured that the administration would continue to provide business grants. “What we have decided to do for next year is being worked out in our next year’s budget. We are appraising N1 billion per Local Government in our 2026 budget, plus other funds that we are going to send to the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry. The grants through this will only be obtained through the Government’s portal by those who have registered and have never gotten one before,” he explained.
On security, Governor Eno emphasized that his administration has continued to maintain peace across the State. He expressed disappointment over some high-profile individuals who still identify as members of cult groups. He warned that the ban on cultism in the State remains in full effect and violators will face trial.
The Governor also announced plans for a memorial service in honour of the late State First Lady, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, which will hold on September 26, 2025.
As the Undershepherd of All Nations Christian Ministry International, he thanked God for sustaining the Ministry for the past 21 years and appreciated everyone who took part in the convention and the victory service.
In his homily, Rev. (Dr.) Godwin Amaowoh, speaking on the theme “You shall not be put to shame,” drawn from Romans 10:12-14, encouraged Christians to place their trust only in God. He said, “Those who put their trust in God will not be put to shame.” Rev. Amaowoh added that by trusting in God, believers will experience divine help, honour, and upliftment.
Also ministering on the topic “How to access the help of God,” from Genesis 27:29, Rev. Simeon Afolabi urged Christians to depend on God’s support to enjoy His protection and blessings. He emphasized that with God’s help, shame would be eliminated from their lives.
The 4-day convention featured praise, worship, choir ministrations, prayers, and teachings that inspired the congregants. The event was attended by the National Vice President of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Pastor E. U. Johnson, who was specially celebrated by Governor Eno, along with members of the State Executive Council, clergy, political leaders, captains of industry, and Christian faithful from within and outside the State.