By Abdullahi Lukman
The Ebonyi State Government has distributed farm inputs across its 13 Local Government Areas to promote increased food production in 2025.
The initiative, launched by Governor Francis Nwifuru, includes the distribution of fertilizers, rice seedlings, and herbicides to genuine farmers.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Uchenna Igwe, disclosed this during the flag-off ceremony at Ezzangbo, Ohaukwu LGA.
Igwe stated that agricultural development is a major priority of the Nwifuru administration.
“This exercise is not just about distributing items but about empowering real farmers with the tools and knowledge to ensure a bumper harvest,” he said.
He hinted that future appointments in the state might require evidence of farming involvement.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mrs Nkechinyere Iyioku, stressed the importance of establishing community-based farms, urging local councils and development centres to lead by example. She warned that the distributed items must not be hoarded or sold.
Mrs Iyioku also revealed plans for a legacy project in Ohaukwu LGA expected to create over 500 jobs for residents.
Chief Ikechukwu Odono, Executive Chairman of Ohaukwu LGA, thanked the governor for supporting rural farmers and assured that only verified farmers would receive the inputs.
Farmers were also trained on good agronomic practices by a resource person, Mr John Nweze. According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the distribution exercise also took place in Ishielu LGA and other parts of the state.
