By Ed Malik, A | ed@ddnewsonline.com | posted 14th february, 2025
The Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo has initiated a comprehensive “Back-to-Farm” program aimed at enhancing food production across the state’s three senatorial districts. This initiative was announced during a meeting with farmers at the Iguoriakhi Farm Settlement in Ovia South West Area of Edo South.
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A statement by the governor’s chief press secretary (CPS), Fred Itua disclosed that this initiative is part of a broader agricultural revolution envisioned by the Okpebholo administration, which includes establishing farms in each senatorial district and providing farmers with essential support such as fertilizers, mechanized farming equipment, and access to loans.
The goal is to boost food production for Edo citizens, contribute to Nigeria’s food supply, and create opportunities for export to other states and countries.
In alignment with this initiative, Governor Okpebholo has allocated over ₦70 billion to the agriculture sector in the 2025 budget, titled “Renewed Hope for a Rising Edo.” This significant investment underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing food insecurity and achieving food sufficiency in the state.
Additionally, the governor has announced plans to provide interest-free loans to traders across the three senatorial districts to help boost their businesses. This program is expected to commence in early January 2025 and aims to empower traders, enhance economic growth, and improve the livelihoods of the people.
These initiatives reflect Governor Okpebholo’s dedication to revitalizing Edo State’s agricultural sector and ensuring sustainable economic development for its citizens.
“I want to thank the farmers because they have been farming before, but this time, we will farm together. We want to produce food that will not only feed Edo State, but also feed Nigeria.
“It’s time for all of us to go back to the farm. Farming has become a very serious business and together we will produce the food and feed our people.
“My administration will provide you with equipment, fertilizers and support with resources to farm and produce food for the nation.
“We will have farms across the three Senatorial Districts of the State. This is the season to farm and we are embarking on farm initiative in Edo State,” Governor Okpebholo emphasized.
Also speaking during the meeting, the permanent secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and food Security, Dr. Osagie Aibuedefe, assured farmers that with an increased Budget of over N70 billion, farmers will greatly benefit from improved incentives to boost their farming activities.
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Earlier, Vice president of the Farmers Association, Mr Benson Enahikare who read the President’s speech, outlined some of the challenges facing the farmers, to include encroachment of cattles that destroy their crops.
The 2,300 hectares of farm land known as the Iguoriakhi farm settlement was established in 1963.