By Victor Essang
The Chief Executive Officer of Women in Nature Conservation Organisation (WINCO), Mrs. Emem Umoh, has expressed gratitude to God following the successful final inspection of the Jackfruit Cottage Industry in Esit Eket by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the expected approval of multiple Jackfruit products lines.
Speaking during the regulatory visit, Mrs. Umoh described the development as a testament to divine faithfulness and the reward of years of dedication, perseverance, and collaboration.
She disclosed that the inspection process ended on a positive note, and has high hopes that the agency will grant approval for ten different pack sizes across five jackfruit-based products produced by the cottage industry.
According to her, the organisation is now awaiting the issuance of official NAFDAC registration numbers, expected in the coming days, which will pave the way for broader market access and commercialization of the products as part of WINCO Social Enterprise engagements for sustainability.
The inspection team was received by the Clan Head of Eket Offiong Community alongside 14 other community leaders from Esit Eket Local Government Area, underscoring the strong local support and community ownership of the initiative.
During the visit, extensive discussions were held on the socio-economic and environmental impacts of the project, particularly its role in promoting sustainable livelihoods, food innovation, and environmental conservation.
Umoh used the occasion to appreciate UNDP GEF-SGP Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State Government, Esit Eket LGA, WINCO team, individuals, partners and stakeholders who contributed to the success of the four-year journey on Jackfruit innovation leading to the regulatory milestone, and commended their commitment and sacrifices, noting that their collective efforts have positioned the project as a model for grassroots-driven agro-processing and conservation initiatives.
She further offered prayers for continued success and fulfillment for all supporters, emphasizing the broader mission of advancing initiatives that benefit humanity while preserving the planet.
The Jackfruit Cottage Industry project, spearheaded by WINCO, is aimed at harnessing the economic and nutritional potential of jackfruit through value addition, while creating jobs and promoting environmental sustainability in local communities.
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WINCO Cooperative Inaugurates Executives in Uyo, Charts Course for Agro-Conservation, Rural Empowerment
By Victor Essang
The Women-In-Nature Conservation (WINCO) Multipurpose Cooperative Society has formally inaugurated its executive members in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, setting the stage for a new era of agro-conservation, rural economic empowerment, and sustainable agricultural development in the state.
The inauguration ceremony, held on April 30, 2026, at the WINCO Office located at No. 15 Ewet Street, off Oron Road, Uyo, brought together cooperative members, development stakeholders, and distinguished guests from both the public and private sectors.
Among the notable dignitaries present were the Director of the Akwa Ibom Cooperative Financing Agency (AKCOFA), Engr. Ogunwunte Thomas Erasmus, and Mrs. Dawn Abraham, who represented Engr. Philip Abraham, the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Gihon Farms.
In her welcome address, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of WINCO, Miss Emem Umoh, unveiled the vision behind the cooperative, describing it as a platform designed to drive agricultural innovation, environmental conservation, and economic inclusion.
She explained that the cooperative’s focus on jackfruit cultivation was deliberate, noting that the crop possesses immense nutritional, ecological, and commercial value capable of transforming rural livelihoods.
According to her, WINCO seeks to build a united community of farmers, investors, and agro-entrepreneurs committed to ensuring food security while creating sustainable income opportunities for local communities.
Delivering the keynote address, Engr. Ogunwunte Thomas Erasmus emphasized the strategic role cooperative societies play in rural development, financial inclusion, and sustainable agricultural practices.
He urged members of WINCO to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, teamwork, and integrity, stressing that the long-term success of any cooperative depends on trust, discipline, and responsible leadership.
He further commended the initiative as a timely intervention capable of strengthening grassroots economic participation while supporting the state’s agricultural development agenda.
Speaking on behalf of the CEO of Gihon Farms, Mrs. Dawn Abraham delivered a goodwill message in which she applauded the vision of WINCO and described jackfruit as one of the most underutilized but economically viable agricultural resources in Nigeria.
She pledged continued support for the cooperative’s mission and praised its leadership for promoting unity, environmental sustainability, and value-chain development through agriculture.
In his acceptance speech, the President of WINCO Multipurpose Cooperative Society, Mr. Ibanga Abasiofon Ikosong, expressed appreciation to members for the confidence reposed in the leadership team.
He assured members that the new executives would prioritize transparency, effective resource management, member welfare, and community development.
Ikosong also highlighted some of the cooperative’s planned benefits, including shareholding opportunities, thrift savings schemes, agricultural support services, and empowerment initiatives aimed at improving members’ economic wellbeing.
He called on all members to remain united and committed to the cooperative’s vision of shared prosperity and sustainable development.
In a vote of thanks, the Chairperson of the Central Planning Committee, Miss Ann Iniabasi Aniefiok, expressed appreciation to guests, members, partners, and supporters whose contributions ensured the success of the inauguration.
A major highlight of the event was the administration of the oath of office by Engr. Erasmus, who formally inducted the newly elected executive members into office amid applause from members and guests.
Observers described the inauguration as a significant milestone for community-driven agricultural development in Akwa Ibom, with many expressing optimism that WINCO will emerge as a model cooperative capable of transforming rural economies through innovation, conservation, and inclusive growth.
Meanwhile, the newly inaugurated Women-In-Nature Conservation (Uyo) Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (WINCO Cooperative) has formally commenced operations in Akwa Ibom State, with a strong commitment to promoting sustainable development, economic empowerment, and inclusive community growth.
The President of the organization, Mr Ibanga Ikosong, made this known in a statement issued shortly after the official inauguration of the cooperative, describing the initiative as a major milestone in the collective quest to improve livelihoods, especially among rural populations.
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