NIFOR SUB-STATION IN ORUK ANAM TO COME ALIVE
…As Rep. Idem sponsors rehabilitation
The member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Rep. Unyime Idem has sponsored the rehabilitation of the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR), Oruk Anam sub station to boost agricultural revolution, create jobs as well as wealth for the youths of the area in particular and Akwa Ibom State in general.
NIFOR, a federal government agency saddled with the responsibility of producing and exporting palm oil was established in 1932 with main station in Edo state and sub stations in Akwa Ibom, Badagry, Dutse, Delta State and a raffia institute in Bayelsa state but the Oruk Anam substation is now deplorable and no longer create jobs or wealth for the people.
Presenting the sponsorship letter to the Head, NIFOR substation in Oruk Anam, Mr Akaninyene Mannaseh, Rep. Idem who was represented by a one time President of Ati Annang, Elder Imoh Emeh stressed the importance of the resuscitation of NIFOR substation, saying that, it will boost agriculture and enhance employment.
The federal lawmaker said the choice of the 74-year-old substation that was a cynosure of all eyes in the late 40s but has been left to rot away owing to neglect, poor funding and vandalism is part of his vision to contribute to Governor Udom Emmanuel’s agricultural revolution, guaranteeing of food security, creation of job and wealth for the youths, and provide raw materials for industries.
In their separate speeches, a former Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Dr. Mathew Ekaette and the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial Youths Chairman, Sylvester Ebong lauded the effort of Rep. Idem and the plan to rehabilitate NIFOR, describing it as unprecedented in the history of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency and called for more support for the federal lawmaker in his future aspiration as doing so will attract more development to the area.
Also speaking the Clan Head of Ibesit, His Highness, Chief Idorenyin Lawrence Ebong commended the lawmaker for keeping his campaign promise and representating the people effectively which he said has touched the lives of the people, assuring that the people of Ibesit Clan and Oruk Anam will continue to support Rep. Idem as one good turn deserves another.
In his response, the Head of NIFOR Oruk Anam substation, Mr Akaninyene Mannaseh expressed happiness over the plan to rehabilitate the institution, recalling that NIFOR contributed greatly to the economy of Nigeria in it’s functioning days, adding that reviving it will further improve the economy of the state and country and create jobs for the youth.
Recall that the House of Representatives in 2019 following a motion by Rep. Idem, directed the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and NIFOR Headquarters to come out with a blueprint to reactivate the NIFOR substation at Oruk Anam local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
IBOM VOICE MEDIA 