Mbah Flags Off Free Fertiliser Distribution In Enugu

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, on Saturday, launched the distribution of over 40,000 bags of fertilisers and other agricultural inputs to farmers across the state.

The event, held at the Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, marked a continuation of the administration’s efforts to boost agricultural productivity and ensure food security.

Mbah recalled that about a year ago, his government distributed 12,000 bags of fertilisers alongside power tillers, improved seedlings, cassava stems, and herbicides at no cost to farmers. He said the initiative contributed to a bumper harvest and a drop in the prices of staple foods this year.

“Our farmers are the backbone of our communities – the hands that till the soil and bring food to our tables. Without you, there is no sustenance, no prosperity, and no growth,” the governor said.

Highlighting further investments in the sector, Mbah said his administration is establishing 200-hectare farm estates in each of the 260 wards in the state. According to him, the estates will feature warehouses, irrigation systems, tractor sheds, electricity, water supply, and mechanisation services.

He disclosed that 102 tractors had already been delivered, with another 98 expected, while an additional 800 would be assembled locally at the new Enugu Assembly Plant, now nearing completion.

The governor also announced plans to upgrade Enugu State Polytechnic, Iwollo, into a University of Agriculture, alongside the creation of Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones and Agro Hubs to promote agro-processing, food security, and job creation.

“These fertilisers are being given out free of charge, directly to farmers in our database. There is no red tape, no middlemen, and no need for connections. Today, over 60,000 registered farmers are direct beneficiaries,” Mbah stated.

He expressed optimism that the initiatives would strengthen food production, create dignified livelihoods for farmers, and advance his administration’s target of growing Enugu’s economy to $30 billion while driving poverty to zero.