In commemoration of the 2023 World Food Day, the Enugu State Government is embarking on a bold mission to eliminate hunger, poverty, and stimulate the rural economy by investing in agriculture and agro-industrialization. The Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Industrialization is at the forefront of this visionary endeavor.
During a gathering held at the State's Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Industrialization, Enugu State Governor, His Excellency, Barr Peter Mbah, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, expressed the state's commitment to revitalizing its economy. The government aims to transform Enugu's economy from $4.4 billion to a remarkable $30 billion by channeling significant investments into the agricultural sector. This will be achieved through partnerships with investors, empowering local farmers, and unlocking the untapped potential of the rural economy.
Governor Mbah commended the diligent farmers in the state for their role in producing a diverse range of food items and emphasized his administration's dedication to providing them with the necessary support. He acknowledged that farming would play a pivotal role in the state's economic growth, stating, "The farmers and farming are going to be a very critical tool for us to eliminate poverty. Farming is going to play a pivotal role in our quest to grow the economy of Enugu State."
While inspecting a variety of locally produced food items showcased at the event, reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring food security in Enugu, Prof Onyia optimistically declared, "We want to assure food security in Enugu, and we are hoping that by the time we gather here next year, there won't be enough space for us to display our farm products."
Speaking on the theme of the event "Water is life, water is food, and leave no one behind", the Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro Industrialisation, Patrick Ubru, while delivering his welcome address, said that the 'World Food Day' serves as a global reminder on the intricate connection between water and food, underscoring the indispensable role water plays in ensuring food security and nutrition for all.
The commissioner while commending the state governor on the relentless efforts he has been making in ensuring that Ndi Enugu have portable water in the state, maintained that with reliable access to water, farmers in the state can engage in year-round farming activities, increase crop yields, and diversify their agricultural practices to enhance food production and contribute to rural development, poverty eradication and improve livelihoods.
"As we celebrate World Food Day today, let us reflect on the positive strides we have taken in the provision of water and its impact on our agricultural landscape. Let us recognize the transformative power of water in empowering our farmers and ensuring food security for all.
"It is a testament to the fact that when we prioritize the needs of our communities and work together, we can overcome even the most significant challenges," Ubru said.
The event was attended by the Chief Whip and Chairman, House of Assembly Committee on Agriculture and Agro-industrialization, Hon. Ejike Eze, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr Gerald Otiji, Commissioner for Labour and Employment, Pharm. Chika Ugwoke, Special Adviser to the governor on Donor Relations, Dubem Onyia (jr), and the Executive Secretary, Enugu State Agricultural Development Program (ENADEP), Ogbonna Onyeishi, among other dignitaries and farmers associations.
Enugu State's plan to invest in agriculture and agro-industrialization marks a significant step towards securing food sustainability, reducing poverty, and bolstering the local economy, promising a brighter future for the state's citizens.