ABIA STATE GOVERNMENT DISTRIBUTES 2 MILLION OIL PALM (TENERA) SEEDLINGS TO ABIA FARMERS.

As part of its effort to boost food security and to increase the agricultural produce of the state, the Abia state government today Flagged-Off of the Distribution of oil palm seedlings and the launching of 2O18 cropping season in the state. Speaking during the flag off ceremony, the honourable commissioner for Agriculture, Rt. Hon. Uzo Azubuike thanked the Governor of Abia state, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu for investing so much in Agriculture and which he said has in no small measure placed the state in a comfortable position as regards to States that are actively involved in boosting the economy of the country through Agriculture. He stated that the seedlings are well treated and nurtured in a way that will help them withstand any condition and it easier for them to yield fruits as soon as possible. The commissioner stated that its ministry is poised to share 4O,OOO seedlings to each of the 17 local government council in the state and also to private registered famers in the state.

Reacting after inspecting the seedlings, the Acting Governor of Abia state, Rt. Hon. Ude Oko Chukwu who represented the Governor of the state praised the commissioner for Agriculture for his effects towards helping the the Okezie Ikpeazu led administration actualize one of its goal which is, boosting the economy of the state through agriculture. The acting governor affirmed that the current administration in the state is aiming high to compete with countries like Malaysia in Palm oil production and is ready to do more as to achieve the goal. He outlined other efforts of Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu in the area of Agriculture in the state to include the production of Stone free rice, distribution of Cocoa seedlings which was carried out few weeks ago and more recently, the revival of the Abia Rubber Plantation.

The Highlight of the occasion was the inspection of agricultural products from all the LGAs of the state and that of FADAMA, and the ministry of Agriculture stands while the Acting Governor demonstrated the planting of Palm tree to kick off the planting season in the state.

The Secretary to the state Government, Dr. Eme Okoro, the Executive Assistant to the Governor, Sir John Nwagborogu, the Executive Chairmen of Osisioma Ngwa and Aba South LGAs, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health matters, Hon. Dr. Ikechukwu Nwabeke, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Agriculture, Barr. Mrs Uzoamaka Uche Ikonne and many other top government officials were present during the ceremony..

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