The Edo State Government has commenced preparations for the new planting season as part of its strategic efforts to guarantee food security across the state.
This was revealed by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ugbodu Golden, during an on-site inspection of 20 hectares of farmland at the Iguoriakhi farm settlement in Ovia South West Local Government Area. Mr Golden, who represented Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo during the visit, confirmed that land preparation activities—ploughing, harrowing, and rigging are in advanced stages, with maize cultivation set to begin shortly.
Addressing farmers at the site, Golden assured them of government support, particularly in the area of security. “We are here to inspect the progress made on the 20 hectares of land being prepared for this year’s planting season,” he stated. “As you can see, ploughing and harrowing have already been completed. Rigging is underway, and planting will commence any moment from now.”
Golden emphasised that this proactive move was in line with the administration’s priority to boost agricultural production. “His Excellency, Governor Okpebholo, is a farmer himself.
This government is committed to making agriculture central to our development strategy, reminiscent of the Green Revolution era when Nigeria not only fed itself but also exported food.”
He encouraged Edo youths to view agriculture as a viable and lucrative career path, describing farming as the new “black gold” that holds the key to long-term economic security.
Also speaking during the visit, Hon. Ali Ibrahim, the State Project Coordinator for FADAMA (Cares), lauded the Governor’s vision for agricultural transformation.
He confirmed that actual planting would commence next week and projected that the forthcoming harvest would significantly enhance food availability across Edo State.
The inspection team later moved to Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area for a sensitisation programme targeting farmers from across the senatorial districts.
The programme is part of a broader initiative to empower local farmers, enhance food production, and stimulate rural economic growth.
