Otti plans to harness agricultural potential, make Abia food exporter

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has outlined plans to leverage the state's agricultural potential to boost industrialization, ensure food self-sufficiency, and transform Abia into a net exporter of agricultural products. Addressing the third edition of the Michael Okpara Memorial Lecture Series at MOUAU, Otti urged Presco Plc, a leading Nigerian agro-industrial firm specializing in oil palm operations, to commence its proposed investment in the state at the government-owned Ulonna Farm Settlement in Umuahia.

To facilitate this drive, Otti announced the formation of a steering committee under his leadership, comprising representatives from the state government, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, PAYAZA Africa Limited, and other relevant stakeholders. The committee's objective is to develop a framework that capitalizes on Abia's agricultural strengths while incorporating modern technology to propel agriculture as a major engine of economic growth.

Otti emphasized the need to combine the visionary approach of late Dr. Michael Iheonukara Okpara, a former Eastern Region Premier, with contemporary technologies to propel agriculture forward. He stressed that the focus would not solely be on achieving food self-sufficiency but also on positioning Abia as a net exporter of agricultural produce.

The governor advocated for the establishment of an Agricultural Technology Hub at MOUAU, highlighting the university's pivotal role in fostering agricultural innovation and strategic investments in research, education, rural development, and infrastructure. Fidelis Edeh, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University Council, echoed Otti's sentiments, underscoring the importance of good governance in realizing the full potential of Abia's agricultural sector.

Prince Arthur Eze, Chairman of the occasion, described Otti as an icon and a beacon for the modern Igbo people. Seyi Ebenezer, the delivery speaker of the memorial lecture, urged the youth to embrace technology and digital innovation in agriculture, moving away from traditional farming practices.

Otti assured Presco Plc of the government's commitment to providing additional land for the project, acknowledging concerns over community disputes and the need to engage affected communities to resolve land-related issues. Presco Plc Chairman, Rasheed Sarumi, expressed confidence in Abia's business-friendly government, vowing to make the investment as previously promised.