Food Crisis: Akwa Ibom Receives FG’s 24,000 Bags of 25kg Rice 

The Akwa Ibom State government has received 24,000 bags of 25kg rice from the Federal Government (FG) to help alleviate the ongoing food crisis in Nigeria. This donation aims to support families struggling with food insecurity. 

Increased Donation 

The FG’s donation has been doubled by the state government, increasing the total to 48,000 bags of rice. This move ensures that more families benefit from the food intervention program. Commissioner for Information, Mr. Ini Ememobong, announced that the distribution dates at each Local Government Council headquarters will be announced soon. Governor Umo Eno expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for its timely assistance, highlighting its responsiveness to the current challenges faced by citizens. The governor emphasized that the additional 24,000 bags of rice provided by the state government aim to reach a broader section of the population. 

Distribution Plan 

The food intervention plan involves distributing 20 bags of rice to each of the 2,272 gazetted villages in Akwa Ibom. Additionally, over 100,000 families from the social register have already received, and will continue to receive, free food items through the Bulk Purchase Agency. While the immediate food intervention addresses current hardships, the state government is also focusing on long-term solutions through the Back to Farm Initiative. This initiative promotes local food production by declaring the first and third Fridays of each month as work-free farming days. 

The donation of 48,000 bags of rice to Akwa Ibom State is a crucial step in mitigating the current food crisis. This intervention demonstrates our commitment to supporting our citizens during these challenging times and ensuring no family goes hungry. Our collaborative efforts with the Federal Government highlight our dedication to both immediate relief and long-term sustainable solutions through initiatives like the Back to Farm program.” 

— Governor Umo Eno

Agricultural Support 

The Ministry of Agriculture has implemented several strategic interventions to boost local food production. These include distributing cassava cuttings, maize grains, pepper seedlings, and coconut seedlings to schools, and providing cocoa and oil palm seedlings to farmers. Livestock farmers have received piglets, goats, day-old chicks, and aquaculture supplies. Additionally, 1,560 beneficiaries have been provided with livelihood grants, agricultural inputs, and services under the AKCARES Scheme. 

The combined efforts of the Federal and Akwa Ibom State governments aim to alleviate food insecurity and support sustainable agricultural practices. The distribution of the 48,000 bags of rice will be managed at Local Government Council Headquarters, with dates to be announced soon. This intervention reflects a commitment to reducing extreme hunger and poverty, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 1.