Enugu, SEDC Sign MoU to Boost Agro-Industrial Growth, Food Security
The Enugu State Government and the South East Development Commission (SEDC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the South East Agro Development Programme, in a move aimed at transforming agriculture into a major driver of economic growth, industrialisation and food security across the South-East.
The agreement, signed at the Government House in Enugu, is expected to attract investments into agriculture, expand agro-industrial activities and strengthen regional economic integration.
Speaking at the ceremony on behalf of Governor Peter Mbah, the Secretary to the State Government, Chidiebere Onyia, reaffirmed the administration's commitment to building a resilient agriculture-driven economy capable of stimulating industrial growth and expanding the state's revenue base.
According to Onyia, the state's ambitious target of growing its economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion will be driven largely by strategic investments in agriculture, value addition and agro-processing.
He noted that the government had deliberately created an enabling environment for investors through enhanced security, regulatory reforms and investor-friendly policies.
Onyia further disclosed that more than 52,000 hectares of land had already been earmarked for agricultural development, assuring investors of government support while protecting the interests of host communities.
Representing the Managing Director of the South East Development Commission, the Commission's Executive Director of Projects, Toby Okechukwu, described the agreement as a landmark initiative that would unlock the South-East's vast agricultural potential.
He said the partnership would attract critical investments into the agricultural sector, enhance food security and accelerate sustainable agro-industrial development across the region.
Okechukwu also commended the Enugu State Government for strengthening security and fostering an investment-friendly environment that continues to boost investor confidence.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Patrick Uburu, said the collaboration would fast-track the state's agricultural transformation through the development of about 52,000 hectares of farmland across designated farm estates.
He added that the initiative would significantly increase food production and stimulate agro-industrial activities.
Also speaking, the Enugu State Liaison Officer to the South East Development Commission, Edeani M. Edeani, described the MoU as a major milestone in the pursuit of regional economic integration.
According to him, the partnership reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to harness Enugu State's agricultural resources for the benefit of farmers, investors and host communities.
He expressed confidence that the initiative would create employment opportunities for young people, promote inclusive economic growth and further position Enugu as a leading agro-industrial hub in the South-East.
