Governor Otti Charts Course for Abia to Become Major Food Exporter

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has unveiled an ambitious strategy aimed at leveraging the state's agricultural resources. This initiative seeks to boost industrialisation, ensure food self-sufficiency, and establish Abia as a leading exporter of farm produce. In a related development, Governor Otti encouraged Presco Plc, a prominent Nigerian agro-industrial firm known for its expertise in oil palm cultivation and processing, to commence its planned investment within the state at the Ulonna Farm Settlement, a government-owned facility situated in Umuahia. Furthermore, the governor disclosed the formation of a steering committee, which he will personally chair. This committee will include members from the state government, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, PAYAZA Africa Limited, and other key stakeholders. Their mandate is to create a comprehensive framework for maximizing Abia's unique agricultural strengths.

These announcements were made by Governor Otti on Thursday during the third Michael Okpara Memorial Lecture Series, hosted at MOUAU, Umudike. During his address, he emphasized the importance of integrating the agricultural foresight of the late Dr. Michael Iheonukara Okpara, who served as the Premier of the former Eastern Region, with contemporary technological advancements. This fusion, he noted, is crucial for repositioning agriculture as a primary engine of economic development.

Governor Otti further explained that the newly established committee would be tasked with pinpointing specific agricultural products where Abia holds a competitive edge. It will also propose necessary investments, infrastructure, and technological innovations required to transform these commodities into profitable commercial ventures. "Our focus for this initiative begins with the Ulonna farm settlements," Otti stated. "While we acknowledge the legacy of Michael Okpara's era, our aim is to elevate agriculture to a new level by incorporating technology. Our ambition extends beyond merely achieving food self-sufficiency; we are committed to making Abia State a net exporter of food."

Additionally, the governor expressed support for a proposal to set up an Agricultural Technology Hub at MOUAU. Speaking at the event, Fidelis Edeh, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University Council, reflected on his political consistency and the demonstration of effective governance. Professor Ursula Ngozi Akanwa, the Vice-Chancellor of MOUAU, highlighted how Okpara's agricultural vision served as a blueprint for fostering economic prosperity, industrial expansion, job creation, and societal progress through targeted investments in research, education, rural development, and infrastructure. Prince Arthur Eze, represented by Prince Emeka Eze, who chaired the occasion, lauded Governor Otti as a distinguished figure and a standard-bearer for contemporary Igbo society. Prince Emeka Eze remarked, "He is the sole leader who truly resembles the man we are celebrating today."

In his memorial lecture delivery, Seyi Ebenezer passionately encouraged Nigerians, especially the youth, to adopt technology, digital innovations, and contemporary business approaches within the agricultural sector, moving beyond the conventional land cultivation methods.

Separately, Governor Otti reiterated his call for Presco Plc to commence its operations at the Ulonna Farm Settlement. The state government currently possesses approximately 4,200 hectares of land at this location, even as efforts are ongoing to acquire further land for the planned investment. This proposition was put forth by the governor on Thursday during a meeting with a company delegation, led by its Chairman, Rasheed Sarumi, at the Government House in Umuahia.

Otti elaborated on the land availability, stating, "The Ulonna Farm Settlement, which is government-owned, spans approximately 4,200 hectares. Therefore, if your requirement is 10,000 hectares, you would only need to acquire slightly under 6,000 additional hectares." He also recognized existing concerns and disagreements over certain community lands earmarked for the project, advising the company to collaborate with the leaders of the impacted communities to address these issues.

"It is crucial to engage with the leadership of these communities," the governor emphasized, addressing fears of land acquisition. "While residents may be apprehensive about potential land grabbing, they are also aware that this administration does not engage in such practices." Governor Otti further assured Presco Plc of his government's commitment to facilitating the acquisition of the remaining land needed for the venture, acknowledging that while the process might be time-consuming, the administration stands firm on its pledge.

Earlier in the meeting, Rasheed Sarumi conveyed his conviction that Presco would successfully establish its operations in Abia, attributing this confidence to the state's business-savvy government. Sarumi stated, "My assurance upon our initial visit was that this investment would materialize, primarily because we are dealing with an administration that comprehends the dynamics of business."