The Ebonyi State Government has commenced the distribution of free wet season agricultural inputs to farmers across the state, as part of efforts to boost food security and promote community-based farming.
The flag-off ceremony, which took place at 135 Ezzangbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area, drew participation from top state officials, local government chairpersons, and stakeholders in the agricultural sector.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of Ohaukwu Local Government Area, Prince Ikechukwu Odono, thanked Governor Francis Nwifuru for prioritizing the welfare of rural farmers and warned against the diversion or sale of the farm inputs.
“We are grateful for the governor’s effort to empower our rural farmers. These inputs must be used wisely to boost food production. Anyone caught selling them will face strict sanctions,” Odono said.
Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of Ishielu LGA, Mrs. Ifeoma Peace Agwu, described the programme as a testament to the governor’s commitment to rural development through agriculture.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Uchenna Igwe, noted that the distribution was part of the governor’s 2025 Wet Season Agricultural Plan. He hinted that agricultural involvement may soon become a criterion for appointments in the state.
“Governor Nwifuru is empowering real farmers. This initiative is not just about giving out inputs but about building a culture of productivity,” Igwe said.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Princess Nkechinyere Iyioku, announced that the governor had directed all local governments and development centres to establish functional farms to serve as models of community agriculture.
She also disclosed that a legacy agricultural project would soon be sited in Ohaukwu LGA, expected to create over 500 jobs for local residents.
The event featured lectures by agricultural experts on improved farming techniques and post-harvest handling. Inputs including fertilizers, rice seedlings, and cassava stems were distributed to verified farmers free of charge.
The state government emphasized its zero-tolerance stance on diversion and vowed to monitor the process to ensure transparency and accountability.
