Gov. Otti Inaugurates 17 Farm Managers for Agric Intervention Project, Urges Dedication

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has inaugurated 17 farm managers, one for each local government area, as part of a new Joint Agricultural Intervention Project aimed at transforming the state’s agricultural landscape.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held at the JAAC Secretariat, Umuahia, Governor Otti, represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, said the initiative marks the beginning of a new era in agricultural development in Abia.

“We are stepping into a new era in agricultural intervention in the Southeast, starting from Abia,” he said. “Great responsibility now rests on the shoulders of these farm managers to drive this project to remarkable success. We believe this will be a major turning point for agriculture in the state, enhancing food security and boosting the economy.”

The Governor explained that the project originated three months ago when approval was granted for the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to set up a 12-member Joint Agricultural Intervention Committee to actualize the state’s agricultural vision.

He described the newly inaugurated farm managers as “food soldiers” who will anchor various agricultural programmes at the local government level, adding that the project is led by LGAs in partnership with the state government.

Governor Otti also highlighted the diverse agricultural ventures selected by different LGAs, including piggery with feed mill and maggot farming, cassava processing, ginger farming, poultry production, pepper farming, and pepper processing plants. He urged trainees across the LGAs to take their training seriously, as the farm managers will supervise the programmes.

Speaking on behalf of the 17 LGA Mayors, the representative of the ALGON Chairman and Mayor of Bende LGA, Deacon Uwabunkeonye Bassey, commended the Governor and the Ministry for the initiative and urged the farm managers to uphold the Governor’s vision.

One of the programme consultants and Managing Director of Fortune Well Farm, Hon. Dannie Ubani, noted that the initiative aims to strengthen sustainable food security in Abia. He added that the new farms will serve as incubation centres for training young farmers and producing skilled agricultural professionals.

Responding on behalf of the farm managers, Dr. Mrs. Glory Nwaogbe pledged their commitment to delivering on their mandate and assured the state government that they would not disappoint. She expressed gratitude to Governor Otti for the opportunity to contribute to food security efforts.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, the Permanent Secretary of the Commission, LGA Mayors and Deputy Mayors, and trainees.