By Chukwuka Ugokwe
The Anambra State Commissioner for Agriculture, Ben Odoemena, has unveiled a four-pillar development strategy aimed at transforming the state into a leading agribusiness hub in Nigeria.
Speaking during a meeting with ministry staff in Awka, Odoemena said the framework would focus on private sector investment, irrigation-led production, competitive agricultural value chains, and efficient service delivery.
According to him, the government intends to drive market-oriented agriculture through partnerships with private investors and producers, stressing that agriculture should be treated as a business rather than a social support sector.
He said the administration would prioritize support for smallholder farmers to improve productivity and food security, while also creating attractive business opportunities to encourage youth participation in agriculture.
Odoemena further noted that the state must prepare ahead for future population growth by strengthening food production and agro-processing capacity.
Earlier, the ministry’s Supervising Permanent Secretary, Chinyere Nwabachili, urged staff to support the new initiative through dedication to duty.
Also speaking, Director of Administration, Ifenyinwa Onyenwe, expressed confidence that the new strategy would improve the agricultural sector.
Tags
Anambra Agriculture, Ben Odoemena, Agribusiness, Anambra Farmers, Food Security, Youth in Agriculture, Irrigation Farming, Agricultural Development, Smallholder Farmers, Anambra Government
