Akwa Ibom State to Forge Partnership with Indonesia Across Multiple Sectors
The Akwa Ibom State Government has sealed a promising partnership deal with the Republic of Indonesia covering various sectors such as the blue economy, electric vehicles, agriculture, aviation, infrastructure, education, technology, and trade.
The collaboration was formalized during a courtesy visit by the Indonesian Ambassador to Nigeria, Usrah Hendra Harahap, to the Government House in Uyo, where Governor Umo Eno warmly welcomed the envoy.
Governor Eno commended the Indonesian government’s keen interest in Nigeria, particularly in Akwa Ibom State, expressing optimism that this engagement marks the beginning of a robust and enduring relationship between Indonesia and a subnational entity in Nigeria.
Highlighting the significance of the partnership amidst the current food crisis triggered by the removal of petrol subsidies by the federal government, Governor Eno emphasized the critical importance of prioritizing agriculture, including the blue economy, to ensure food sufficiency. He lauded Indonesia’s notable achievements in these areas and expressed the state’s eagerness to collaborate.
“Agriculture is a major focus for us given its contribution to our GDP and employment. We are keen to partner with Indonesia, which has excelled in agriculture,” Governor Eno remarked.
Acknowledging the Indonesian Ambassador’s offer to support Ibom Air with a CN235 aircraft, Governor Eno pledged to engage with the airline’s management regarding the proposal.
In the realm of technology, the governor highlighted the state’s interest in electric vehicles, an area where Indonesia has made significant strides. He expressed a desire for collaboration to leverage clean energy solutions and also proposed cultural exchanges to boost tourism.
Ambassador Usrah Hendra Harahap reiterated Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties with Nigeria, dating back to 1965, and commended Akwa Ibom State for its contributions to fostering this relationship. He expressed Indonesia’s readiness to deepen collaborations with the state across education, healthcare, and trade sectors.
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The ambassador also highlighted specific areas of interest, including offering the CN235 aircraft to Ibom Air to enhance connectivity, exploring coal-based fertilizer technology for agricultural productivity, and fostering economic growth through mutual partnerships.
The partnership between Akwa Ibom State and Indonesia represents a significant step towards harnessing shared expertise and resources to drive sustainable development and economic prosperity across various sectors.
