The Akwa Ibom State Government has transferred management of the Ibom Model Farm to Akwa Ibom State University, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen food security and develop agro tourism across the state.

Governor Umo Eno announced the decision during an inspection of the facility, stating that the state Ministry of Agriculture would retain supervisory oversight while the university handles daily operations. He added that the government was in the advanced stages of providing the necessary infrastructure for the farm to commence full operations.

"We began this project by providing the farmhouse. The farm is now going to be managed by Akwa Ibom State University, and the Ministry of Agriculture will perform the supervisory role," Eno said.

The Governor described the facility as more than an agricultural production centre, emphasising its recreational and tourism dimensions. "You can see the ambience of the farm. This is what we expected. People should be able to come here and relax. This is agritourism. Apart from food, some things will be happening here," he said.

Eno disclosed that the Ibom Model Farm was inspired by the Songhai Farm model and would serve as a blueprint for similar projects planned across the state's three senatorial districts. Additional model farms are earmarked for Ini Local Government Area, serving the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District, and Eastern Obolo Local Government Area, serving the Eket Senatorial District.

Commissioner for Agriculture Dr Offiong Offor said the farm's vision extended well beyond food production. "The objective beyond food security has been to develop human capacity and also serve as a tool for agrotourism. It is going to be everything His Excellency expected it to be," she stated.

Vice Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University, Prof Otoabasi Akpan, assured the Governor that the institution possesses the technical expertise to manage the facility and establish it as a benchmark for modern agricultural practice. He confirmed that the initiative aligns with the agricultural revolution pillar of the state's ARISE Agenda.

"The goal is to provide food security in line with the ARISE Agenda, where the 'A' stands for Agricultural Revolution. We thank His Excellency for allowing us to serve the state," Akpan said.