Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has flagged off the 2026 farming season, marking the second phase of his administration’s Back-to-Farm initiative with the distribution of agricultural inputs and equipment to farmers across the state’s 18 local government areas.
The event, held at the Agricultural Hub along Oko-Ogba Road in Benin City, was disclosed in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, and drew farmers and key stakeholders from across the state, who showcased a variety of farm produce, highlighting Edo’s vast agricultural potential.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, Esq., the governor monitored the distribution exercise and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening agriculture, boosting food production, and ensuring food security.
He emphasized that the Okpebholo-led administration would continue to support farmers through increased funding and the implementation of impactful agricultural programmes statewide.
According to him, agriculture remains a central pillar of the administration’s SHINE agenda, with deliberate efforts to prioritize food production and security.
“It is heartwarming to see Edo people demonstrate such passion for farming. Food remains a basic necessity for survival, and agriculture is a profession that will endure because humanity will always depend on it,” he said.
Reflecting on the administration’s priorities, the governor noted that upon assuming office on November 12, 2024, a significant portion of the state budget was allocated to agriculture, underscoring his commitment to the sector.
He also highlighted his visit to the Iguoriakhi Farm Settlement—becoming the first governor in over two decades to do so—as part of efforts to directly engage with farmers and understand their needs.
Okpebholo stressed the importance of ensuring that government support reaches genuine farmers, not politically connected individuals.
“We must ensure that resources get to real farmers. This administration is focused on practical governance, not rhetoric. We will continue to provide the necessary support and enabling environment for agriculture to thrive,” he added.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Jerry Uwangue, described the programme as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to sustainable agricultural development and improved livelihoods for farmers.
He said the initiative aims to formally commence the 2026 farming season while encouraging farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices, including the use of improved seedlings, fertilizers, agro-chemicals, and mechanized equipment.
A guest lecturer, Sunny Eronseyi, delivered a presentation titled “Strengthening Agricultural Systems for Food Security in Edo State,” where he examined the sector’s evolution and outlined strategies for enhancing productivity and sustainability.
Some beneficiaries, including Uwensuyi Monday, Godfrey Omoruyi, and Henry Ebole, commended the state government for the intervention and appealed for continued support to ensure a successful planting season.
Items distributed at the event included sprayers, fertilizers, gloves, safety goggles, protective coveralls, fish processing kits, gas cylinders, farm boots, knapsack mist dusters, and other essential farming tools.
The initiative underscores the state government’s resolve to reposition agriculture as a key driver of economic growth and food security in Edo State.
