The Akwa Ibom State government has restated its commitment to boost agricultural productivity through cultivation of improved variety of crops such as cassava, rice, coconut, among others.

Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. (Mrs.) OFFIONG OFFOR, who stated this in an interaction with newsmen, said the distribution of improved cassava and coconut seedlings is ongoing so that where challenges are encountered with the crops, they could be replaced.

According to her, till date, the distribution of improved seedlings – cassava, coconut, maize, vegetables to secondary schools has not ended, and the feedback is quite encouraging as those who had challenges were immediately given seedlings for replacement.

Dr. OFFOR noted that after her ministry gave out seedlings to the chairmen of Local Government Areas and other stakeholders to cultivate, they continue to monitor their progress with a view of making amends in the eventuality of any losses.

She, however, noted that the possibility of any crop, including cassava and coconut, to encounter challenges should not be ruled out, stressing that the seedlings are doing well, while those that had challenges were given seedlings for replacement.