Enugu State Gov't Lunches Official Indigenous Standard Rice Brand
In a strategic move to boost local agriculture, the Enugu State Government officially unveiled its latest initiative, "ENUGU RICE," at a ceremony held at the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Industrialization complex.
The event, attended by various dignitaries, saw Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah represented by Deputy Governor Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai. Hon. Patrick Nwabueze Ubru, Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialization, highlighted the government's unwavering dedication to transforming Enugu into a prominent agricultural hub.
Governor Mbah commended the collaborative efforts of farmers and assured increased support to enhance rice production, declaring, "Enugu will soon be known as a Rice-producing State." He emphasized the state's commitment to achieving zero hunger by 2031.
Commissioner Ubru, echoing the governor's sentiments, praised the authenticity and originality of Enugu Rice. He announced plans to establish more rice mills across local government areas, significantly expanding processing capacity.
The Enugu Rice launch aims not only to promote the brand but also to make rice accessible to all communities at affordable prices. Commissioner Ubru revealed that the state government had directed the establishment of rice mills in various locations, covering over 50,000 hectares of rice fields.
Governor Mbah's vision to make Enugu the nation's food basket was reinforced by Commissioner Ubru, who highlighted the government's financial support for agricultural projects, including the Agricultural Transformation Agenda Support Program and Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project.
IFAD-VCOP Coordinator, Mr. Edward Isiwu, urged the state to provide land for rice cultivation to enhance production. Representatives from APPEALS Project and ATASP-1 emphasized the need for standardized rice cultivation, offering support to farmers with essential inputs.
The Permanent Secretary for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialization, Mr. Victor Ngwu, expressed gratitude to Governor Mbah for his commitment to agriculture, citing the release of counterpart funds for various projects.
The event showcased the government's dedication to transforming Enugu into an agricultural powerhouse, with the unveiling of the Enugu Rice brand by Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah as the highlight of the day. The introduction of "ENUGU RICE" marks a significant stride towards achieving sustainable agricultural development and ensuring food security for the people of Enugu State.