The Ebonyi State Fertilizer Chemical Company, a key investment under the control of the Ebonyi State Government, has generated about N200 million within a span of six months.
This signals a positive upturn and robust outlook for l state-owned investments.
Nkechinyere Iyioku, the state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, shared this during a press conference held in Abakaliki, the state capital.
The Ebonyi Fertilizer Chemical Company situated in Onuebonyi was revived by the present administration to support local farmers by ensuring consistent availability of affordable fertilizers, thereby enhancing agricultural productivity in the state.
According to Commissioner Iyioku, upon his assumption of office, Governor Francis Nwifuru implemented various policies through the State Agriculture Ministry upon assuming office.
These policies have contributed significantly to the revitalization of the fertilizer plant, and hence the agricultural development of Ebonyi State.
She said, “The Ministry made gains for the State under six months because, after the inception of office, I took practical steps in reshaping the company for success. I shut down all the known financial leakages by the introduction of non-payment of money by cash but direct payment into the company’s account.
“I introduced e-records in both the account section, marketing section, and in the factory, thereby enabling periodic stocktaking and audit of the company’s account.
“I strengthened the tax force on fertilizer adulteration by increasing their stipend and as well, mobilized them for ease of movement to clamp down on fertilizer adulteration.”
She continued, “I also motivated factory workers by the introduction of incentives to take care of their wellbeing and ensure their better health. Safety kits were purchased for their safety. This also enhanced their efficiency. Consequently, workers are punctual, and traces of indolence and truancy are not entertained.
“I also reinforced security by installing solar lights and CCTV cameras in all the strategic locations of the factory.”
According to her, she also ensured the availability of products to meet farmers’ needs, producing a substantial quantity of fertilizers during the peak of the dry season in 2023.
Additionally, she supervised the maintenance and repair of all sections of the factory, preventing potential breakdowns and ensuring that every area remained operational, clean, and orderly.
“The primary objective of the company is to ensure the availability of fertilizers to the farmers on time,” she said.
