Paul Ekpo Facilitates Training of Traditional Rulers, Youth on Oil Palm Production for Export

Paul Ekpo Facilitates Training of Traditional Rulers, Youth on Oil Palm Production for Export

Obong Paul Ekpo, the member representing Etinan/Nsit Ibom/Nsit Ubium Federal Constituency, has facilitated the training of traditional rulers and youth on oil palm production for export.

The event, held at the constituency office in Etinan Local Government Area, brought together more than 100 selected constituents from the three local government areas. Many were already engaged in oil palm farming, while others expressed plans to diversify into the sector to tap into the foreign exchange market.

Óbóng Paul Ekpo, Member representing Etinan/Nsit Ibom/Nsit Ubium Federal Constituency

Delivering a technical session, Mr. Etima Udo Ituen, Director of Tree Crops at the Ministry of Agriculture, trained participants on nursery establishment, spacing, harvesting techniques and post-harvest handling to ensure high yields and export-grade quality.

In his welcome address, the Senior Counsellor at the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr. Idongesit Essien, urged participants to view palm oil not just as a local livelihood but as a gateway to international markets. He highlighted the importance of meeting global standards, including traceability and environmental sustainability, to remain competitive.

In a keynote address, the ED/CEO, Mr. Ben Itinbge, stressed the value of local processing, encouraging communities to establish small-scale plants to reduce waste, improve profitability and create jobs.

Mr. Mark Jah Jah also underscored the need for innovation and collaboration among farmers, processors and exporters, noting that global buyers increasingly favour ethically certified suppliers.

Speaking at the event, Obong Paul Ekpo thanked the resource persons, traditional rulers and youth for their commitment. He said the training formed part of his broader vision to equip constituents with practical skills for self-reliance, adding that oil palm production could transform the local economy, create jobs and position the constituency as a key player in the export market. He assured participants of continued support through people-oriented projects.

During a question-and-answer session, stakeholder Emem Jimmy commended the initiative, saying it laid “the foundation for a more sustainable rural economy” and could turn participating communities into palm oil export hubs within five years.

The member representing Nsit Ibom, Hon. Eric Akpan, described palm oil production as “the right investment” and announced his intention to venture into the business, encouraging others to follow suit.

Other goodwill messages came from the member representing Etinan, Uduak Ekpo-Ufot; Political Leader of Nsit Ibom, Gen. Paul Isang (Rtd); Christ Ambassador Andrew Unwanta; and the paramount ruler of Etinan, A.M. Akpanobong. They all pledged their support, citing the project’s potential to cut youth unemployment, raise household incomes and boost foreign exchange earnings.

The programme concluded with each of the 100 beneficiaries receiving hundred palm tree seedlings and ₦100,000 for logistics.