By Rose Ekan
UYO – The strategic focus of Governor Umo Eno on agriculture as a driver of economic growth under his ARISE Agenda has come in for commendation from stakeholders in the agribusiness sector.
The stakeholders gave the commendation in Uyo on Thursday at a press briefing to announce the 5th Agribusiness Roundtable International Conference, tagged UYO 2026.
The briefing, which was attended by journalists, investors and key players in the agricultural value chain, was addressed by the South-South Zonal Coordinator of the Nigeria Agribusiness and Agro-Industry Development Initiative, NAADI, Dr. Howard Usen.
Dr. Usen, who is also the Chairman of the Central Organizing Committee, COC, of the conference, said Governor Eno has shown exemplary leadership by prioritizing agriculture beyond mere policy pronouncements.
According to him, the stakeholders’ meeting was convened to update the public on preparations for the international conference and its expected economic impact on Akwa Ibom and the South-South region.
He said Governor Eno deserves credit for placing agriculture at the core of governance.
“We must acknowledge the exemplary leadership of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD, whose strategic vision has placed agriculture at the heart of his ARISE Agenda,” Usen said.
The NAADI coordinator noted that the administration has distinguished itself in implementation and follow-through.
“Leadership is not merely about introducing programmes; it is about implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and ensuring that the intended beneficiaries experience real change. Governor Umo Eno has demonstrated commitment through initiatives that empower farmers, support smallholder producers, strengthen rural households and improve livelihoods,” he said.
Usen described agriculture as the most inclusive sector for job creation and wealth distribution, with capacity to accommodate women, youths and vulnerable groups.
He explained that UYO 2026 was conceived to translate that potential into concrete investments and partnerships.
“UYO 2026 is designed to turn these opportunities into tangible economic outcomes,” he said.
On the scale of the conference, Usen disclosed that it has received endorsements from the Federal Government and is expected to attract top-level participation.
“We anticipate the participation of governors from across the South-South region, alongside investors, policymakers, development partners and agribusiness leaders. We have secured endorsements from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, with their Permanent Secretaries expected to represent the Ministers,” he revealed.
He added that engagements are ongoing with international development organisations to drive agricultural transformation and sustainable development.
Usen stressed that the conference is relevant for every actor in the value chain.
“UYO 2026 is the place to be if you have an interest in agriculture, agribusiness, SMEs, agro-processing, investment or export development,” he stated.
He announced that the 4-day event will hold at Watbridge Hotels & Suites, Uyo, from October 25 to 28, 2026. Arrival of delegates is slated for October 25, while the official opening ceremony will be held on October 26.
The conference theme is: “Unlocking Africa’s Agricultural Value Chains: Processing, AfCFTA Market Integration, and Climate-Resilient Capital.”
According to the Chairman, the theme was carefully chosen to address value addition, access to African markets under the African Continental Free Trade Area, AfCFTA, and financing for climate-resilient agriculture.
He listed participation options to include goodwill messages in support of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the state government’s ARISE Agenda, advertisement in the official brochure, exhibition of products and services, digital business promotion and general registration for networking.
“Whether you are a smallholder farmer, entrepreneur, agro-processor, exporter, investor or service provider, UYO 2026 offers you a platform to showcase your work, build strategic partnerships, explore investment opportunities and expand your market reach,” he said.
He urged businesses and individuals to leverage the platform, describing it as more than a conference.
“UYO 2026 is more than a conference. It is a platform for partnerships, investment, enterprise development and agricultural transformation,” Usen said.
He reminded prospective participants that the countdown has begun.
“Ten days to go! Make your plans today. Register, exhibit, advertise, partner and be part of the transformation. We look forward to welcoming you to Uyo from October 25 to 28, 2026,” he added.
The conference is expected to draw hundreds of delegates from across Nigeria and Africa, with focus on processing, market integration and climate-smart agriculture.
