Since assumption of office, the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has demonstrated an uncommon commitment to transforming the agricultural sector as a core strategy for economic diversification, job creation, and food security. Understanding the critical role agriculture plays in ensuring sustainable development, Governor Nwifuru has prioritized agricultural reforms with bold and strategic interventions that are already yielding visible results.
One of the landmark achievements of Governor Nwifuru’s administration is the revitalization of the moribund Agro Fertilizer Industry at Onuebonyi, Abakaliki. This vital facility, which had long been abandoned, is now back to life, producing quality fertilizer inputs to support local farmers across the 13 Local Government Areas of the state. The resuscitation of the plant is a strategic move that reduces the cost of farming and boosts agricultural productivity among local farmers.
In another outstanding stride, the governor successfully revived the Hatchery Farm located at Odinukwe Street, Abakaliki. The hatchery, which is now fully operational, plays a key role in poultry production and serves as a hub for training, capacity building, and the supply of quality chicks to farmers, thereby enhancing poultry farming as a viable agribusiness in the state.
Furthermore, Governor Nwifuru has made significant investments to maximize the potential of the Ezillo Rice Farm, one of the state’s largest agricultural assets. With renewed government attention, the farm is now undergoing transformation into a high-yielding rice production center, contributing not only to local consumption but also to commercial distribution beyond Ebonyi borders.
In a bid to modernize agriculture, the governor has procured modern tractors and farming equipment to facilitate mechanized farming practices. This is complemented by the training of hundreds of Ebonyi youths in modern agricultural techniques, exposing them to innovative and sustainable farming methods that increase efficiency and output.
Due to his commitment to youth empowerment and economic diversification, Governor Nwifuru has also empowered numerous young farmers and agric entrepreneurs with financial grants worth millions of naira. These funds are aimed at encouraging active youth participation in agriculture and supporting agribusiness startups across the state.
Throughout his administration, the governor has consistently emphasized the need for economic diversification beyond oil and white-collar job dependence, placing agriculture at the heart of Ebonyi’s economic future. Through the effective coordination of the State Ministry of Agriculture, Governor Nwifuru’s policies have paved the way for a self-sufficient Ebonyi, where food is abundant, youth are engaged, and rural communities are thriving.
Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s strides in agriculture underscore his visionary leadership and unflinching commitment to building a resilient and prosperous Ebonyi State. His agricultural roadmap is not just about crops and farms. Rather, it is a bold economic strategy to empower the people, ensure food sufficiency, and build a sustainable future for all.
Chidozie Okwuru Clement
June 4, 2025.
