October 30, (THEWILL) — The Chief Executive Officer of Fens Group, Mr Michael Udofia, has urged Nigerian youths to take charge of their financial future by embracing agribusiness as a viable path to wealth creation and self-reliance.
Udofia, who received the 2025 Agribusiness Development and Enterprise Award (ADEA) at the 4th Agribusiness Roundtable International Conference in Uyo, said agriculture remains the surest route to financial freedom and economic empowerment in a country grappling with unemployment and poverty.
Sharing his success story, Udofia recalled starting a business in 1993 with only N3,500 after graduating from the university in 1992, and growing it into Fens Group, a conglomerate with interests in petroleum marketing, construction, and large-scale farming.
“You don’t need millions to begin. Start small, stay consistent. Even with just 20 palm seedlings, you can build a future where you no longer borrow to pay school fees or depend on anyone to eat.”
He said the journey from humble beginnings to owning the largest palm plantation in Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State underscores his belief that agriculture is not just about food but a foundation for prosperity, employment, and national growth.
Presenting the award, NAADI Zonal Coordinator, Mr Howard Usen, said Udofia’s story exemplifies the power of innovation, resilience, and leadership in transforming rural economies and inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs.
He lauded the Fens Group boss for creating jobs and fostering community development through agribusiness investments that align with the Federal Government’s economic diversification agenda.
The conference, organised by the Nigeria Agribusiness and Agro-Industry Development Initiative (NAADI) under the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, drew over 500 participants and featured keynote addresses from ministers, diplomats, legislators, and industry leaders.
