Agricultural Boost: Ebonyi Govt Empower Farmers with 13,000 Bags Of Fertilizer
The Ebonyi State Government has taken significant steps to enhance agricultural productivity in the state by authorizing the procurement and distribution of 13,000 bags of fertilizer to farmers.
This decision was announced by the State Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Engr Jude Okpor, during a press briefing on Friday following the latest meeting of the State Executive Council (EXCO) in Abakaliki, the capital city.
Fertilizer Production Commences at Ebonyi State Fertilizer and Chemical Company:
Engr Okpor highlighted that the Executive Council received a report on the commencement of fertilizer production at the Ebonyi State Fertilizer and Chemical Company.
As a result of this development, the council approved the distribution of 13,000 bags of fertilizers to farmers across the state, aligning with the directives of the previous Exco meeting.
Other Key Decisions by the Executive Council:
• Electrical Network Improvement: The state government is set to repair 33 units of transformers for redeployment into the electricity network across the state. The Commissioner for Power and Energy has been tasked with consulting the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) to reach a mutually beneficial agreement before seeking the council’s approval.
• Support for Small and Medium Scale Industries: The council approved the reactivation of funds for the Small and Medium Scale Industries Credit Scheme, providing an initial capital of Fifty Million Naira only. Additionally, a Recovery Committee will be constituted to ensure beneficiaries’ repayment for the scheme’s sustainability.
• Establishment of Lead and Zinc Processing Plant: The Ministry of Solid Minerals was granted approval to initiate the process of establishing a Lead and Zinc Processing Plant, along with a Buying Center in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
• Higher Subvention to Ebonyi State University: The monthly subvention to Ebonyi State University (EBSU) has been increased from N150m to N200m. Furthermore, the council approved the release of the promised sum of N300m from the immediate past administration to the University, resulting in a total release of N700m to EBSU.
• Development of 21st Century Smart City: The Commissioner for Capital City and Urban Planning has been directed to develop a master plan to upgrade the state capital into a 21st Century Smart City. This includes the construction of Bus Shelters with Water Closets and the interlocking of walkways and non-concrete covered medians along major dual carriageways.
• Construction Projects: Several road construction projects were approved by the council, including the construction of roads in different areas of the state.
• Fulfillment of Campaign Promise: To fulfill the campaign promise of the governor, His Excellency, Rt. Honourable Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, the council approved the construction of a befitting duplex for each of the Traditional Rulers presently holding sway in their respective communities across the state.
• Vehicle Purchase: The Executive Council members, House of Assembly members, and Security Agencies will receive the approval for the purchase of vehicles.
The decisions made by the Ebonyi State Government reflect its commitment to boosting agriculture, improving infrastructure, and supporting various sectors for the overall development of the state.