The Ebonyi State government, in collaboration with the Federal Government and the IFAD Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP), has begun distributing modern agricultural equipment and inputs to farmers in preparation for the 2025 dry season farming. The initiative also marks the inauguration of several 2024 IFAD-VCDP projects designed to boost food security and improve rural livelihoods.
Items distributed include power tillers, rice threshers, rice reapers, garri hydraulic presses, nutrient-dense implements, impulse sealers, tricycles, rice destoners, mobile milling machines, weighing scales, bags of fertilizers, cartons of herbicides, and high-yield rice seedlings, among others.
The flag-off ceremony took place at the IFAD-VCDP office in Onuebonyi, Abakaliki. Governor Francis Nwifuru, represented by his wife, Mrs. Uzoamaka Nwifuru, described the event as a significant step toward achieving food security, sustainable rural development, and economic growth in the state.
He commended IFAD-VCDP, particularly National Programme Coordinator Dr. Fatima Aliyu, for their ongoing partnership, which has empowered thousands of farmers and transformed rural communities.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to food sufficiency, the governor highlighted dry-season farming as a key source of income for farmers, aligning with his vision for increased productivity and stronger value chains.
He urged beneficiaries to utilize the inputs judiciously, adopt modern technologies, collaborate through cooperatives, and treat agriculture as a viable business.
Dr. Fatima Aliyu revealed that VCDP has implemented numerous projects in the state, including the construction of 20 markets, toilet facilities, 20 solar-powered boreholes, 12 cassava and rice processing centers, and 21 mini-bridges to improve trade access.
The programme has supported over 23,000 farmers since inception, providing equipment to more than 664 rice and cassava processors across eight local government areas: Ohaukwu, Ishielu, Izzi, Ezza North, Ikwo, Ohaozara, Ivo, and Afikpo North.
She praised Governor Nwifuru for clearing counterpart fund backlogs and commended farmers for their dedication.
State Coordinator Chief Sunday Michael Ituma noted that Ebonyi is leading dry-season farming efforts, particularly in Ikwo. He highlighted the governor’s release of ₦100 million in 2023 and ₦200 million in 2024 as counterpart funds, projecting over 230 direct jobs and additional indirect benefits from this year’s distribution.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mrs. Nkechinyere Iyioku, described the programme as a strategic investment in repositioning agriculture as an economic driver.
The event highlights Ebonyi State’s commitment to mechanized farming and supports national efforts to increase agricultural productivity and strengthen food security.
