The Abia State Government is creating a database for farmers to record their crops and farm locations, aiming to enhance agricultural tracking and support the local farming community.
Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, the State’s Agriculture Commissioner, shared this update with reporters in Umuahia, noting that the initiative is progressing well.
Agbaeze emphasized that the initiative aims to help farmers engage with various agricultural programs offered by both state and federal governments, as well as other intervention agencies.
He also called for the integration of agricultural practices into basic and secondary education in the state to inspire youth to pursue farming.
He highlighted that the administration's efforts in agriculture are not just transformative but revolutionary, reflecting the sector's crucial role in the state’s economy.
“Abians must achieve food security and sovereignty. We need to contribute to the state’s economic growth through agriculture,” he stated.
Agbaeze expressed his enthusiasm for the various programs and policies the administration has implemented in the agricultural sector and encouraged the community to get involved.
The commissioner stated that the current administration has launched several intervention programs to ease the significant challenges faced by farmers. He added that Governor Otti has approved the disbursement of funds to 298 CSC trainees who received training in agricultural value chain techniques at CSC in Nasarawa State.
Recall that Governor Alex Otti, during this year's World Food Day Celebration at the International Conference Center in Umuahia, highlighted the event's reminder of food's vital role for humanity and the necessity of returning to farming to ensure sustainable and accessible food supplies. He also called on stakeholders in the agricultural sector to contribute to the fight against hunger and food insecurity.
The governor assured that the State Government is ready to partner with the community, particularly farmers with innovative ideas, to strengthen the agricultural sector.
He emphasized that this renewed collaboration aims to improve food security and foster the development of agriculture in the state.
In his submission, the Vice Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Professor Maduebibisi Iwe, represented by DVC Administration Professor Franca Asawalam, along with Dean of the College of Agricultural Economics, Rural Sociology and Extension, Professor Nnanna Mba, and Small Holders Oil Palm Director, Mr. Maraizu Chiemela, stated that investing in agriculture boosts food production, promotes food security, and facilitates effective insecticide and pest control management.
