First SEDC Agro-mechanisation Project Set for Flag-off, as Okoye Visits Enugu Site

The first of 15 agro-mechanisation projects designated by the South East Development Commission (SEDC) across the region's senatorial zones is scheduled to commence on Tuesday, according to the Commission's Managing Director and CEO, Mark Okoye. Okoye revealed this during a site and community engagement visit to Nomeh Unateze community in Nkanu East Local Government Area (LGA) of Enugu State.

The SEDC, established in 2024, has spent the first year conducting extensive studies and designing a comprehensive blueprint for the South East's economy. The agro-mechanisation projects are a key component of this blueprint, aiming to tackle issues of insecurity, unemployment, and food security. The goal is to develop up to 50,000 hectares of land for mechanised farming across the region.

Okoye highlighted that the projects will focus on piloting the development of 200 to 300 hectares of farmland in each of the 15 senatorial zones, transforming them into standard farms that grow staple crops and cash crops. He also emphasized the creation of learning and productivity centers in these areas. The governor has agreed to the flag-off in the coming week, with the investment expected to bring in N4bn to N5bn.

Okoye commended President Bola Tinubu for establishing the commission to mobilize resources and coordinate development in the South East, urging the people to reciprocate by supporting the President's efforts post 2027. He further announced that the SEDC will soon launch an investment agency to mobilize local and diaspora investments for the region's speedy development.

Media aide to the Governor of Enugu State and a community leader, Uche Anichukwu, praised the Agro-mechanisation project as a blessing from the All Progressives Congress, Tinubu, and Governor Mbah administrations to Enugu and Nomeh Unateze in particular. The project's location, supported by Nomeh Unateze Town Union Caretaker Committee Chairman Dr. Chukwudi Anyianuka and other stakeholders, is seen as a significant step towards regional development.