“Anambra–Imo River Basin Authority Calls on Abia to Partner in Agricultural Revival”

The Chairman of the Anambra–Imo River Basin Development Authority, Senator Emmanuel Anosike, has urged the Abia State Government to partner with his agency to revive agricultural production in the South‑East region. He made the call during a courtesy visit to Abia State Governor Alex Otti at his country home in Nvosi, Isialangwa South Local Government Area.

Anosike highlighted a decline in productivity on more than 1,300 hectares of land previously used for rice, cassava, and fish farming, attributing the situation to weaker collaboration between the authority and state governments. He emphasised the need for stronger partnerships to reinvigorate farming and support the federal government’s food security goals.

He also said the visit was part of a regional tour to introduce members of the authority’s management committee and identify areas for cooperation with South‑East states. Anosike said Abia was chosen first because of its strategic importance in agriculture.

Governor Otti responded by pledging Abia’s full support for collaboration with the authority to transform the state’s agricultural sector. He noted the improvements in power supply in cities such as Aba and Umuahia, saying these will help stimulate economic activity.

To ensure the plans move forward, Otti approved the creation of a joint technical committee involving key state officials to work directly with the River Basin Authority.