…Feds Promise Grants To Farmers
To boost cassava production for exportation, the Enugu State Government on Tuesday disclosed plans to earmark over 100,000 hectares of land for agricultural purposes in line with her development plan.
The Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah revealed this when he received delegates from the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning in the government house, Enugu.
Governor Mbah expressed willingness to collaborate with the Federal Government as the plan is in tandem with his administration’s plan; agriculture is a major productivity sector identified by Mbah’s administration to drive development and growth in the state.
“Enugu has arable land that yields five times more than other states. We will be working with you closely in this regard and we’re ready to provide you all the things you need to start the pilot project in our state.”
“Cassava production would go beyond consumption to export. This will generate revenue for the people; the value chain from cassava flour, cassava cake, cassava chips, among others, would be created from cassava production,” Governor Mbah reiterates.
Earlier, the delegates from the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning led by the Permanent Secretary, Nebeolisa Anako, revealed their mission in the state is to chart the way forward for economic development of the state and country.
Anako disclosed the Federal Government’s intentions to give grants to Enugu farmers in respect of the project.
Furthermore he said the first phase of the project will be centered on sensitization programme on biosphere, cassava, and palm production.
“This project will grow the economy, attract massive employments, and engage the youth,” Anako said.
Recall that the Federal Executive Council gave approval for a pilot project on cassava production to commence in the South East zone.
