From TCNEWS
In a determined push to ensure food security and stimulate economic development in rural communities, the Abia State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ASOPADEC) has continued its agricultural input distribution campaign, targeting farmers in Ukwa East Local Government Area (LGA).
At a recent event, ASOPADEC distributed improved cassava stem bundles, and packets of corn and maize seedlings to women farmers, marking a significant step in the state’s agricultural revitalization plan. The initiative, powered by the administration of Governor Alex Otti, aims to empower rural farmers and bolster food production in oil-producing communities.
The distribution, held in several villages across Ukwa East LGA, was led by ASOPADEC Chairman Venerable Dr. Joshua Onyeike, represented by the Commission’s Director of Social Welfare, Mrs. Amarachi Isaac-Nwachukwu.
“We are committed to supporting rural farmers with improved inputs that will guarantee a bumper harvest,” Mrs. Isaac-Nwachukwu stated, urging beneficiaries to take full advantage of the opportunity. She emphasized agriculture as a sustainable path to economic independence, especially for women and youth in rural areas.
In addition to the input distribution, the event featured an agricultural sensitization session conducted by Mr. Rowland Nwamuo, an agronomist with the Commission. Farmers were trained on best practices for planting and maintaining high-yield crops.
The ASOPADEC spokesperson highlighted the Commission’s ongoing development projects in Ukwa East, which include the installation of boreholes in Abaki, Ohandu, and Akanu Ndoki, the reconstruction of a civic hall in Eti, and scholarship programs for indigent students.
This initiative reflects a growing trend of state-level agricultural intervention in Nigeria, especially in oil-producing regions where infrastructure development and economic diversification are essential. By equipping rural farmers with modern inputs and training, ASOPADEC not only supports food security but also strengthens the socio-economic fabric of Abia State’s most underserved communities.
Some of the beneficiaries, including Nwagbaso Otuechere, Blessing Nwakanma, and Chinasokwu Ubani, expressed gratitude to Governor Otti and ASOPADEC’s leadership for what they described as a “life-changing initiative.” They pledged continued support for the state government’s rural development efforts.
The community turnout was strong, with men, women, and youths participating in the event, underscoring the significance of the programme to the local population.
