Ebonyi govt directs establishment of farms in 13 LGAs, 64 Devt Centres
By Peter Okutu
Ebonyi State Government has directed Chairmen of the 13 Local Government Areas and Coordinators of the 64 Development Centres of Ebonyi State, to establish Local farms within their territories.
This initiative, according to government will not only develp the culture of farming among rural dwellers but also guarantee food security in the State.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Princess Nkechinyere Iyioku stated this at the flag off of the distribution of free farm inputs at Ishielu LGA of the State.
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She further emphasized the importance of developing community-based farms and urged the local councils to lead by example.
“The Governor has directed that every local government should establish its own functional farm, which must be replicated in the development centres. We also call on private individuals to take up farming.”
Iyioku disclosed that Governor Nwifuru recently announced a legacy project to be sited in Ohaukwu LGA, a development expected to create over 500 jobs for indigenes.
She also warned against hoarding or illegal sale of the agricultural items.
Speaking at the launch event held at 135 Ezzangbo, headquarters of Ohaukwu Local Government Area, top government officials and local council chairpersons hailed Governor Francis Nwifuru for his sustained support for rural agriculture and food security in the state.
In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of Ohaukwu Local Government Area, Prince Ikechukwu Odono, who addressed beneficiaries at the event, thanked the Governor for prioritizing the welfare of rural farmers.
“We are grateful for the governor’s effort to flag off the distribution of free farm inputs to our rural farmers. I urge all beneficiaries to make good use of these inputs to boost food security not only in this council but the entire state and beyond.
“We will not take it lightly if anyone is found selling the farm inputs. This programme is for empowerment, not for profit-making,” he warned.
Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of Ishielu LGA, Mrs. Ifeoma Peace Agwu, described the exercise as a strong show of Governor Nwifuru’s pro-farmer commitment.
“Our Governor has remained consistent in his support for farmers, and today’s distribution confirms his determination to make Ebonyi a food-secure state.”
Also, the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Uchenna Igwe, revealed that the free input distribution was part of the Governor’s 2025 wet season agricultural plan.
“Governor Nwifuru graciously approved these inputs because he is an agriculture-friendly leader. This exercise is not just about distribution; it’s about empowering true farmers with the tools and knowledge they need,” Igwe explained.
“In fact, going forward, before anyone is given appointment in the state, they may be required to show their farm,” he added.
The event featured special lectures on modern farming techniques including improved rice and cassava cultivation, sack-bag farming, and nutrition as farm inputs were distributed free of charge to verified farmers from the local councils.
Resource persons at the event included agronomy experts Patrick Ogbinya, John Nweze, and Amaka Onele, who took the farmers through practical lessons on increasing yields and post-harvest handling.
