On Tuesday, Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, officially launched the South East Agro-Development Programme (SEADP), a 200-hectare pilot integrated model farm by the South East Development Commission (SEDC) at Nomeh Unateze, Nkanu East Local Government Area (LGA) of Enugu State. The event marked a significant transition from planning to physical implementation by the Commission. Several notable figures attended the ceremony, including the Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, and Chairman of SEDC, Dr. Emeka Wogu.
The programme is an example of strategic collaboration between South East states and the Commission, particularly at a time when food production and economic diversification have become increasingly important. Governor Peter Mbah, represented by the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, described the project as a vital initiative that aligns with the state government's goal of building 200-hectare modern farm estates in the 260 wards of the state. The state's investment in agriculture is part of a broader effort to eradicate poverty by 2031.
The Agro-Development Programme fits perfectly into the state government's agricultural development plan, which aims to boost food production and create economic opportunities. According to Governor Mbah, investing in education, infrastructure, security, health, and transportation is crucial for creating access to enable investors and partners like the SEDC to have access to land and development opportunities. The Governor emphasized that communities that invest in agriculture with a geometric progression are able to migrate their people faster from poverty to a middle-class economy.
The Managing Director/CEO of SEDC, Mr. Mark Okoye, explained that the project was designed to redefine how the region approaches agriculture. The South East Agro-Development Programme aims to build the productive capacity of the region by bringing together land, technology, mechanization, production, processing, training, and markets. Okoye stated that the project would ultimately be measured by its impact beyond the physical boundaries of the 200-hectare site.
The Nomeh Unateze project is intended as a starting point and practical template for the Commission's wider agricultural and agro-mechanization interventions across the five South East states. The project will serve as a model for future agricultural development initiatives in the region. Okoye emphasized that the programme's success will be evaluated based on its impact on the region's agricultural sector and the local community.
Governor Mbah urged the people of Nomeh to own the project and ensure its success. He noted that the project has the potential to become an important part of the economic development of not just Nomeh Unateze and Enugu East Senatorial Zone, but the entire South East region. The Governor's representative, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, read the Governor's address, highlighting the significance of the project.
The event was attended by traditional and community leaders, stakeholders, and community members, who witnessed the official flag-off of the programme. The South East Agro-Development Programme is a significant initiative aimed at boosting agricultural development and economic growth in the region. The programme's success will depend on the collaboration and support of all stakeholders involved.
Key points
- The South East Agro-Development Programme is a 200-hectare pilot integrated model farm aimed at redefining agriculture in the region.
- The programme aligns with the Enugu State government's goal of building 200-hectare modern farm estates in the 260 wards of the state.
- The project aims to build the productive capacity of the region and serve as a model for future agricultural development initiatives.
