From Boniface Nwankwo
Since becoming the 4th democratically elected Governor of Ebonyi State on May 29, 2023, Governor Francis Nwifuru has consistently positioned agriculture as a cornerstone of the state's economic transformation, shifting it from subsistence farming to commercial and industrial agriculture.
His administration's goal is to make agriculture a major driver of food security, job creation, and value-added processing within the state.
To make this sector attractive to farmers, Governor Nwifuru has continued to distribute farm inputs, including fertilizers, improved rice seedlings, and herbicides, across the 13 Local Government Areas to support farmers in improving crop yields.
The distribution targets genuine farmers to ensure they benefit directly and contribute to higher productivity.
Thousands of agricultural machines, such as pumping machines, grinding mills, and cassava processors, have been procured and donated to communities and cooperatives to modernize farming activities annually.
The Nkaliki Hatchery, a key state agricultural asset, has been revitalized, stocking 15,000 layer birds and over 20,000 broilers, generating employment for young people.
Apart from being a ready source of eggs for consumers, the Nkaliki hatchery is poised to meet the poultry needs of Ebonyians and beyond this festive season, with broilers available in assorted sizes and quality.
The Ebonyi State Fertilizer Chemical Company has been brought back to life, meeting the fertilizer needs of Ebonyians and the South East, and contributing to reduced costs of inputs for farmers.
According to available records, the Fertilizer Blending Plant has injected millions of naira into the state's internally generated revenue since revitalization by the Governor Nwifuru administration.
The People's Charter of Needs propelled administration is currently constructing a feed mill industry to support livestock production and enhance downstream agricultural value chains.
Also ongoing is the construction of an integrated ranch and livestock farm in Izhiamgbo aimed at boosting animal husbandry in the state.
Since taking the mantle of leadership, Governor Nwifuru has been a vocal advocate for youth engagement in practical agriculture, urging voracious participation and encouraging young people to see farming as a viable and rewarding means of livelihood.
The administration's agricultural empowerment programs include grants and training opportunities aimed especially at young farmers.
To achieve these goals, the state has continued to pay counterpart funds to IFAD to support agricultural projects and expansion.
There are equally other initiatives to attract investment and partnerships through outreach by the Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Uzoamaka Nwifuru, for agricultural collaborations, indicating a broader strategy to connect Ebonyi agriculture with international support.
These interventions have boosted food production and agricultural output, strengthening food security and empowering farmers with tools, resources, and know-how.
By reviving neglected facilities and prioritizing mechanization, the administration is laying foundations for sustained growth in agricultural productivity.
Overall, from the foregoing, Governor Nwifuru, having made agriculture integral to his administration, is not about slowing down in this trajectory but is poised to ensuring that all Ebonyians have farms of their own, in addition to other genuine sources of income.
This undoubtedly will ensure food sufficiency and economic viability.
All Ebonyians are encouraged to key into this 'back to the roots' drive and support Governor Nwifuru in attaining his green vision for the state.
Dr. Boniface Nwankwo is the Special Assistant to the Governor of Ebonyi State on Documentation.
