The Enugu State government has commenced the construction of 15 rural access roads aimed at improving connectivity to key agricultural processing and aggregation centers. This ambitious infrastructure project is set to boost the productivity and efficiency of local farmers, driving growth in the sector.
During the 2024 World Food Day celebration in Enugu, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialization, Mr. Patrick Ubru, revealed that the road construction has already begun. “These new roads will give farmers better access to markets, improve the efficiency of our agricultural supply chain, and ultimately increase productivity,” Ubru said.
With these new developments, farmers across the state will soon have direct access to essential infrastructure that will help reduce transportation costs and losses, ensuring that farm produce reaches markets in optimal condition.
In addition to the new roads, Ubru announced that Enugu is set to receive 300 tractors, an initiative spearheaded by Governor Peter Mbah. These tractors are expected to modernize agricultural practices and significantly boost farmer productivity across the state. “This will transform farming in Enugu, allowing us to fully embrace mechanized agriculture and scale up food production,” Ubru added.
The state is also investing heavily in livestock farming. Ubru highlighted the launch of the Livestock Production and Resilience Support (L-PRESS) project, which includes the ongoing construction of a regional veterinary hospital in Akwuke, Enugu South LGA, and the development of modern abattoirs. These projects will provide critical services to livestock farmers and ensure a steady supply of healthy meat in the state.
Governor Peter Mbah, represented by Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr. Lawrence Eze, praised the achievements of the Ministry of Agriculture, noting that all the farm produce showcased during the World Food Day event were grown within Enugu State. “We are entering a new era of agricultural abundance, where the state’s soil yields more than enough to feed our people,” Eze stated.
The event, themed “Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future,” underscored the importance of food security and sustainable agricultural practices. Mbah’s administration remains committed to transitioning the state’s agriculture to mechanized methods, ensuring that the local population enjoys the right to food and a stable supply of nutritious produce.
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Speaking at the event, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the State Government, highlighted the state’s vision to create a robust agricultural sector that meets local demands while positioning Enugu as a model of excellence in food security. “Our goal is to build a thriving agricultural sector that not only feeds our people but also serves as a blueprint for food security in Nigeria,” Onyia said.
Mrs. Clara Eze, Chairman of the Enugu State Committee on Food and Nutrition, lauded the government’s commitment to promoting local delicacies and nutritious eating habits. “What we eat directly impacts our health and longevity. It’s time we embrace our traditional foods, which are far healthier than processed, packaged options,” she emphasized.
Representatives from civil society also praised the state government for its efforts. Mr. Finian Ali, the State Coordinator of Civil Society-Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN), urged continued advocacy for policies that improve access to nutrition-rich food. “We commend the state’s efforts, particularly initiatives like the Smart Green Farm, which address the growing security concerns in farmlands,” Ali noted.
