Gov Otti Launches Large-Scale Farming Project to Drive Agricultural Transformation in Abia

…Vows to Punish Defaulters of Agric Empowerment Scheme

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has taken a bold step toward achieving agricultural transformation in the state with the approval of a large-scale integrated farming project under the CSS model.

The initiative, which builds on the success of the state-sponsored training of 302 young Abians at CSS Farms in Nasarawa, is part of the Otti administration’s drive to ensure food security, boost production, and create sustainable agribusiness opportunities for youth.

Speaking after the State Executive Council meeting on Monday, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, announced that the CSS farm structure will now be replicated in Abia State to serve as both a production hub and a training ground for young people interested in agriculture.

“This project will not only enhance the state’s food production capacity but also provide hands-on training for our teeming youths to venture into agriculture and agribusiness,” he said.

According to the Commissioner, the first phase of the CSS farm programme in Abia recorded a success rate of over 80%, with beneficiaries using their empowerment funds responsibly, training additional farmers, and preparing to repay the interest-free loans extended to them.

However, Prince Kanu expressed concern over 26 beneficiaries who have failed to account for the support they received and have avoided project supervision. He revealed that the government would soon impose sanctions on these defaulters.

“The details of appropriate sanctions will be announced in the coming days. We must ensure accountability,” he stressed, adding that the government would also be increasing support for those who have demonstrated seriousness and commitment.

In addition, the Ministry of Agriculture is set to begin distributing improved farm inputs through a transparent, data-driven process based on records from the farmers’ training programme. This is to ensure that only genuine and active farmers benefit from the inputs.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, explained that each of the 302 trained beneficiaries was mandated to train at least three others. He added that a business plan will be developed around their agricultural specialization to further empower them and expand the network.

“We have a clear plan to scale this across all local government areas to ensure wide participation,” he said.

Dr. Agbaeze issued a stern warning to those who misused government funds, stating that the administration will pursue full recovery.

“We have the names, pictures, and contact details of all defaulters. This government will not tolerate such abuse. Every kobo must be accounted for,” he declared.

With this new initiative, the Otti administration reinforces its commitment to building a self-sustaining agricultural economy while holding participants accountable to public trust.