Dr. Kelechi Anosike, the 2027 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State, has pledged to revive the agricultural revolution initiated by the late Premier of the defunct Eastern Region, Dr. Michael Okpara. This initiative aims to ensure food security and food for export in Abia State. Anosike made this promise at the 2026 Iwa Ji Ohuhu Festival held in Umuahia North Local Government Area.
Anosike unveiled his Agricultural Welfare philosophy, which focuses on food security and export. He introduced "Operation Feed Abia," an active back-to-farm state policy that encourages massive food production. According to Anosike, his administration will provide food for everyone, and everyone will have a farm. This policy aims to address the current food scarcity in the state.
Under Anosike's leadership, Abians struggling to afford one square meal a day will enjoy abundance. He assured that when he becomes Governor in 2027, citizens will have three square meals a day, and surplus food will be available. Anosike emphasized that no one will go to bed with an empty stomach again. His administration will prioritize food security and make farming attractive to youths.
To achieve this goal, Anosike plans to equip, retrofit, and modernize farm settlements established by Dr. Okpara with modern facilities, including ICT, sporting, and relaxation centers. This will make farming appealing to youths, who will be able to work and relax without missing out on modern amenities. Anosike believes that this approach will increase food production and make farming a lucrative venture.
Anosike also promised to reintroduce agricultural extension workers to train farmers on best agronomic practices. This move aims to reduce over-chemicalization, which has made Nigerian agricultural produce unfit for export and prone to quick spoilage. By promoting sustainable farming practices, Anosike's administration will ensure that agricultural produce is export-ready and of high quality.
The PDP flag bearer also plans to mandate local government areas to assist farmers with tractors and machinery to clear and till farmlands. This initiative will reduce the cost and labor associated with farming, especially for communities practicing rotational cropping. Additionally, Anosike promised farm grants, inputs, and cooperative financing to support farmers.
Anosike's administration will also review the Abia State Traditional Rulers Council Regulation Order to double the monthly stipend of royal fathers and cater to youth leaders and others. Furthermore, he introduced the concept of cooperative economics and financing, which will encourage cooperatives to register with a bank set up by his administration, called Traders Micro-finance Bank. This initiative aims to link agricultural prosperity to economic welfare and wealth creation.
Key points
- Anosike's "Operation Feed Abia" policy aims to ensure food security and food for export in Abia State.
- The policy includes equipping and modernizing farm settlements, reintroducing agricultural extension workers, and providing farm grants and cooperative financing.
- Anosike's administration will prioritize food security, make farming attractive to youths, and promote sustainable farming practices.
