Aimed to boost local agriculture and provide affordable food options for low-income households, the Enugu State Government has introduced "ENUGU RICE." The unveiling ceremony, held at the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Industrialization complex, was attended by various dignitaries, including Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, represented by Deputy Governor Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai.
Hon. Patrick Nwabueze Ubru, Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialization, emphasized the government's dedication to transforming Enugu into an agricultural hub. Governor Mbah commended the collaborative efforts of farmers and assured increased support to enhance rice production.
Expressing optimism, Governor Mbah declared, "Enugu will soon be known as a Rice-producing State." He highlighted the state's significant strides in the agricultural sector, aiming to achieve zero hunger by 2031.
Commissioner Ubru lauded the governor's commitment to agricultural development, citing the occasion as a testament to the authenticity and originality of Enugu Rice. He announced plans to establish more rice mills across local government areas to boost processing capacity.
The Enugu Rice launch aims not only to promote the brand but also to make rice accessible to all communities at affordable prices. Commissioner Ubru disclosed that the state government had directed the establishment of rice mills in various locations, totaling over 50,000 hectares of rice fields.
Governor Mbah's vision to make Enugu the nation's food basket was reiterated by Commissioner Ubru, who highlighted the government's financial support for agricultural projects, including the Agricultural Transformation Agenda Support Program and Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project.
IFAD-VCOP Coordinator, Mr. Edward Isiwu, urged the state to provide land for rice cultivation, enhancing production. Representatives from APPEALS Project and ATASP-1 emphasized the need for standardized rice cultivation, offering support to farmers with essential inputs.
The Permanent Secretary for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialization, Mr. Victor Ngwu, expressed gratitude to Governor Mbah for his commitment to agriculture, citing the release of counterpart funds for various projects.
The event showcased the government's dedication to transforming Enugu into an agricultural powerhouse, with the unveiling of the Enugu Rice brand by Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah as the highlight of the day.
