The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has taken a significant step toward strengthening the state’s agricultural value chain, urging the Ministry of Agriculture to partner with the private sector in establishing more primary food processing and packaging centres.
The resolution followed deliberations on a motion sponsored by Chief Whip and Member representing Mbo State Constituency, Effiong Johnson, who highlighted the urgent need to address post-harvest losses and improve the market value of agricultural produce in the state.
Presenting the motion during plenary, Johnson noted that the state’s ongoing agricultural renaissance has encouraged many residents to return to farming, leading to expectations of increased harvests in the coming seasons. He, however, warned that without adequate processing and storage facilities, much of the produce could be lost, undermining farmers’ efforts and economic gains.
The lawmaker further stressed that establishing processing and packaging centres would not only reduce wastage but also promote value addition, standardization, and the development of viable agricultural value chains. According to him, such initiatives would create employment opportunities, particularly through partnerships with Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) engaged in agro-processing.
Following deliberations, the Speaker of the House, Udeme Otong, who presided over the session, directed the House Committee on Agriculture to liaise with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to address the issues raised.
The Committee has been given a one-month deadline to report back to the House with actionable recommendations.
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