The Abia State Ministry of Agriculture recently hosted a top-level delegation from the South East Development Commission (SEDC) to discuss ways both sides can work together to improve agriculture and rural development in the state.
The team was led by Dr. Cliff Ogbede, the Executive Director in charge of Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Rural Development. He said the visit supports the Commission’s mission to speed up development in the South East.
Dr. Ogbede explained that the SEDC was officially launched on January 11, 2025, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to tackle major development challenges in the region. He praised Governor Alex Otti’s reforms in agriculture and said the Commission is eager to support the state.
He also noted that the SEDC wants to partner with Abia State to develop farm estates located in the three senatorial zones. The partnership will include planning, technical support, and shared funding to improve farm infrastructure and increase agricultural output.
In his response, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, said the Otti-led administration is fully committed to rebuilding the agricultural sector. He added that the government aims to address long-standing development problems and follow the vision of leaders like Dr. Michael Okpara and Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, who promoted agricultural growth in the past.
Dr. Agbaeze explained that the state’s development plan focuses on improving existing farm plantations rather than acquiring new land. This, he said, will help strengthen relationships with host communities and ensure development that includes everyone.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Ijeoma Adanma Aguwa, welcomed the delegation and assured them of the Ministry’s full support. The State Director of Lands, ESV Mong Uduma, also promised technical assistance from his office.
Officials at the meeting included:
Dr. Cliff Agbaeze Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture
Mrs. Ijeoma Adanma Aguwa, PhD Permanent Secretary
Dr. Ojo Uma Ojo State Director of Agriculture
ESV Mong Uduma State Director of Lands
Samuel O. Titilaye Representative of the Acting Surveyor-General
The visit represents an important step toward building a strong partnership that aims to make Abia State a leading center for modern and sustainable agriculture in the South East.
