Akwa Ibom State Government has announced an adjustment to its Work-Free Farming Days policy, limiting it to only the first Friday of every month, beginning from next month.
In a press statement, Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, said the decision followed a review of the programme’s impact on civil servants’ participation in agriculture and the need to maintain uninterrupted delivery of public services.
Previously observed on both the first and third Fridays of each month, the farming days allowed government workers to engage in farming activities as part of the state’s agricultural development drive.
” The new directive, approved by Governor Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D, aims to strike a balance between promoting agriculture and fulfilling government obligations.
“This change will allow officials to continue contributing to our agricultural revolution while ensuring that the duties and responsibilities of government are discharged without undue interruption,” the statement noted.
The statement said, the directive exempts workers in strategic offices such as the Governor’s Office, Deputy Governor’s Office, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Office of the Head of Service, and emergency or essential services personnel.
All Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have been instructed to make necessary adjustments to their work schedules to reflect the new policy and ensure full compliance.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its workforce in agricultural pursuits as part of broader efforts to boost domestic food production and enhance food security in Akwa Ibom.
