The Enugu State Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Mr. Patrick Ubru, has expressed a renewed commitment to fostering partnerships aimed at unlocking the state’s agricultural potential and advancing value chain development.
He made this known on Wednesday in Enugu during a meeting with the South Saharan Social Development Organisation (SSDO), a non-governmental organisation, led by its Executive Director, Dr. Stanley Ilechukwu.
Mr. Ubru reiterated the Ministry’s willingness to collaborate with agriculture-focused organisations to drive growth in the sector and ensure increased food production for both local consumption and export.
He emphasized the importance of agriculture to Nigeria’s economy, noting that many households in both urban and rural parts of Enugu State rely on it for their livelihoods.
“Our governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, is strongly supportive of agriculture and is currently assisting verified and registered farmers with resources, training, and modern techniques to boost productivity and reposition agriculture as a viable enterprise,” Ubru said.
Dr. Stanley Ilechukwu, Executive Director of the South Saharan Social Development Organisation (SSDO), expressed the organisation’s readiness to collaborate with the Ministry to implement sustainable agricultural solutions, particularly targeting rural farmers across Enugu State.
He affirmed SSDO’s commitment to supporting the state government’s farmer empowerment programmes, which aim to enhance farming techniques, boost crop yields, and strengthen food security for both the state and the country.
“With the growing challenges of climate change affecting food production, SSDO is dedicated to working alongside the Enugu State government on impactful initiatives. Our joint efforts can help build a more resilient and secure agricultural future for the region,” he said.
Dr. Ilechukwu noted that the proposed initiatives would focus on agroecological practices, climate-resilient farming methods, and necessary policy reforms—strategic elements vital to achieving sustainable food systems.
He added that the collaboration would mark a significant milestone in developing an agricultural framework that supports farmers, uplifts local communities, and drives statewide progress.
