The Chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area, Dr. Eric Odo, has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to eradicating poverty and achieving food security through modern agricultural initiatives.
Speaking at the launch of the Agricultural Public/Private Partnership Programme (P4) with Resourceful Crop Farmers (RCF) in Ogbede, Odo emphasized that the initiative aligns with Governor Peter Mbah’s vision of leveraging agriculture for economic growth. He noted that agriculture is expected to contribute over 17% to Enugu State’s GDP, underscoring Igbo-Etiti’s role in advancing the state’s agricultural agenda.
To drive this vision, the local government plans to allocate a special budget for the program by 2026, supporting the large-scale cultivation of yam, cocoyam, pepper, cassava, and beniseed across five hectares. Odo stressed that the initiative aims to empower farmers with resources and modern techniques to enhance productivity, boost food supply, and create economic opportunities within the community.
However, he warned beneficiaries against misusing government-provided funds, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in managing agricultural investments. He assured that mechanisms would be put in place to monitor progress and ensure the program achieves its objectives.
Programme Coordinator, Mr. Donatus Okpokoeze, highlighted that the P4 initiative is designed to give farmers better access to funding, training, and market linkages, enabling them to scale up production and improve their livelihoods.
With this initiative, the Igbo-Etiti local government aims to position itself as a model for agricultural transformation in Enugu State, demonstrating the potential of strategic partnerships in driving rural economic development.
