As part of the state government’s broader strategy to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure food security, the Cross River State Governor, Apostle Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, on Friday, flagged the harvest of the Outgrowers Rice Farm, a 5,000-hectare project located in Ugboro, Bekwarra Local Government Area.
Speaking at the occasion, Governor Otu, represented by his Senior Special Adviser on Agriculture, Prof. John Shiyam, disclosed the administration’s commitment to revitalizing agriculture as the cornerstone of the state’s economy and deliberate policies have been implemented to provide farmers with cutting-edge technology and mechanized equipment to boost rice production.
Prof. Shiyam, while applauding the dedication of the farmers, particularly women, in cultivating the initial 5,000 hectares of the larger 50,000-hectare project launched earlier in the year by the governor, reassured farmers of the government’s ongoing support, including a grower credit scheme designed to fund operations and grant access to advanced machinery, noting that it would not only enhance efficiency, reduce labor-intensive processes, but also improve farmers’ productivity and socioeconomic well-being.
He further stated that the project is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to combat poverty and hunger by ensuring affordable food for Nigerians. He emphasized that Governor Otu’s administration prioritizes Agriculture, which according to him has the potential to create jobs, increase state revenue, and drive development, particularly in rural areas.
Speaking earlier at the event, the Special Adviser on Rice Value Chain Development, Mr. Emmanuel Anoh, described the initiative as part of a comprehensive effort to solidify Cross River State’s position as a leader in rice production and a model for agricultural activities.
He highlighted that beneficiaries (farmers) received training, farm inputs, and access to a grower credit scheme, noting that this support will be sustained in the next farming season.
Mr. Anoh commended Governor Otu for his proactive policies and investment in infrastructure and resources to boost agricultural productivity and food security. He also encouraged young people to explore opportunities within agriculture and its value chains.
Farmers, including Christiana Abubu and David Enya, expressed gratitude for the government’s support in providing essential farm inputs. They also called for further investment in modernizing and mechanizing farming operations to enhance yields and make agriculture more attractive and profitable in future seasons.
