US based agro-allied firm, Praxis Africa, has announced intentions to invest in mechanized farming in Enugu State by taking advantage of the state’s business-friendly atmosphere.
Also, the Enugu State government has expressed its readiness to support the company’s endeavours to enhance mechanized agriculture within the state.
Addressing a delegation from Praxis Africa and its Nigerian partners, IAEGO Agro Ventures, at the Government House in Enugu, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia stated that the investors visited at the perfect time.
He emphasized that their arrival is in line with the state government’s efforts to pursue projects across various economic sectors.
According to him, “We are looking at investing massively in agriculture across the value chain, and we want to do that in large clusters.
“This will be in the areas we have comparative advantage. So, we are hoping that through what you are doing with IAEGO, we will be able to upscale agriculture in the state.
“This is a serious government. We believe that whatever we can do to support you from the thought process to the actual execution will be done. We believe that this will be good for the business perspective and in the interest of the people of Enugu State.”
During the courtesy visit, Igwe Ifeanyi Ogbu, chairman of IAEGO Agro Ventures and traditional ruler of Nara Unateze, conveyed his intentions to the Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
He mentioned that Praxis Africa and their organization are actively exploring collaboration opportunities to improve agriculture in the state.
“The focus would involve substantial investments in funding farm activities and implementing mechanization initiatives across the state’s 17 local councils.”
Speaking further, “Enugu State will benefit tremendously. We are starting with Nara as the pilot area, and we will move to all 17 local councils in Enugu State and the entire country.
“We already have over 25,000 hectares from which we can work.”
“We are also going to talk to other communities around Nara, like Ihuokpara, Igboaka, Amagunze and anywhere we can get land.”