News in brief:
– Enugu State Government plans to invest ₦2 billion in 2025 to establish farm estates in all 260 wards.
– The initiative will create jobs, enhance food security, and address farmer-herder conflicts with secure, fenced farms.
The Enugu State Government has announced plans to invest ₦2 billion in establishing farm estates across the state’s 260 political wards in 2025.
Dr Patrick Ubru, Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, disclosed the initiative during a briefing in Enugu, highlighting its potential to revolutionise agriculture and promote food sufficiency under Governor Peter Mbah’s administration.
Food security through local farming
Dr Ubru explained that the One Political Ward, One Farm Estate initiative is designed to empower communities to achieve self-sufficiency in food production. Residents will receive training in advanced agronomy practices, access to high-yield seedlings and stems, and guidance on efficient land use.
“This initiative will be a game-changer,” he said. “Our agriculture-loving governor is ensuring that people in every locality reap maximum benefits from this project, which will transform the agricultural landscape of Enugu.”
The proposed farm estates will span hectares of land in each ward, accommodating diverse agricultural activities such as crop farming, animal husbandry, poultry, horticulture, exotic plant cultivation, and fish farming.
Implementation and monitoring measures
The state government plans to collaborate with local government councils to implement the initiative effectively. Youths, in particular, will be encouraged to take ownership and actively participate, creating employment opportunities and addressing food insecurity.
“This initiative will solve numerous challenges, especially food insecurity,” Ubru stated. “It will also address incessant farmer-herder conflicts as the farm estates will be securely fenced.”
To ensure the smooth operation of the farm estates, the government will work with local government chairmen to establish round-the-clock security and monitoring systems.
Ubru emphasised the economic benefits of the initiative, noting its potential to boost productivity and create jobs, especially for young people. He added that the project reflects Governor Mbah’s commitment to addressing farmer-herder clashes and promoting agricultural innovation.
