The Enugu State Government has announced plans to invest N2 billion in 2025 to establish farm estates across all 260 wards in the state, in a bid to boost food sufficiency and agricultural productivity.
Dr. Patrick Ubru, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, made this known on Monday in Enugu, highlighting the state’s innovative approach under Governor Peter Mbah’s administration.
Ubru described the “One Political Ward, One Farm Estate Initiative” as a transformative effort designed to empower local communities to achieve self-sufficiency. “This initiative will ensure that each ward can feed itself while contributing to overall food sufficiency in the state,” he said.
According to the commissioner, residents of each ward will be trained in best agronomy practices and introduced to high-yield seedlings, advanced stems, and effective land management techniques.
“This initiative will be a game-changer for our people,” Ubru emphasized. “Our agriculture-loving governor is putting everything in place to ensure that our people get the maximum benefits.”
The estates, spanning hectares of land, will feature diverse agricultural activities, including crop farming, animal husbandry, poultry, horticulture, exotic plant farming, and fish farming.
The government plans to work closely with local government councils to ensure the project’s smooth implementation. Youth engagement will also play a significant role, as Ubru revealed that the initiative is designed to create jobs and foster community ownership.
“The One Political Ward, One Farm Estate Initiative will solve many issues, particularly food insecurity,” he said. “The persistent crises between farmers and herders will also be addressed, as the farm estates will be securely fenced.”
Ubru noted that enhanced productivity within the estates would not only reduce unemployment but also mitigate conflicts. “This vision by Dr. Peter Mbah ensures that crises between herders and farmers are nipped in the bud,” he added.
To ensure the safety and functionality of the estates, the state government will collaborate with the 17 local government chairmen to provide round-the-clock security and monitoring.
The initiative reflects Enugu State’s commitment to leveraging agriculture for economic growth and sustainable development.
