The Enugu State Government and the South East Development Commission (SEDC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the South East Agro Development Programme, marking a significant milestone in the drive to transform agriculture into a major engine of economic growth, industrialisation, food security, and regional prosperity across the South-East.
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The agreement, signed at the Government House in Enugu, reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to harness the region’s vast agricultural potential through strategic investments, modern farming practices, value addition, and agro-industrial development.
Speaking at the ceremony on behalf of Governor Peter Mbah, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to build a resilient agriculture-driven economy capable of accelerating industrial growth and expanding the state’s economic base.
Professor Onyia stated that Governor Mbah’s ambitious vision of growing Enugu State’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion would be anchored significantly on agriculture, agro-processing, and value-chain development.
He noted that the government had deliberately positioned Enugu as an attractive investment destination through sustained improvements in security, regulatory reforms, and investor-friendly policies designed to encourage both local and international investments.
According to him, the state has already earmarked more than 52,000 hectares of land for agricultural development across designated farm estates, while assuring investors of adequate government support and the protection of the rights and interests of host communities.
Representing the Managing Director of the South East Development Commission, the Executive Director of Projects, Mr. Toby Okechukwu, described the partnership as a landmark initiative that would unlock the enormous agricultural potential of the South-East and lay the foundation for sustainable economic transformation.
He said the collaboration would stimulate strategic investments in agriculture, strengthen food security, create wealth, and accelerate agro-industrial development across the region.
Mr. Okechukwu also commended the Enugu State Government for creating a secure and investment-friendly environment that continues to inspire investor confidence and position the state as a preferred destination for agribusiness.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Dr. Patrick Uburu, explained that the partnership would fast-track the state’s agricultural transformation agenda through the cultivation and development of approximately 52,000 hectares of farmland, significantly boosting food production, agro-processing, and commercial agriculture.
Also speaking, the Enugu State Liaison Officer to the South East Development Commission, Mr. Edeani M. Edeani, described the Memorandum of Understanding as a major milestone in advancing regional economic integration and collaborative development.
He noted that the initiative demonstrates the collective determination of both the Enugu State Government and the SEDC to maximise the state’s agricultural resources for the benefit of farmers, investors, and host communities.
According to him, the programme is expected to generate thousands of employment opportunities, particularly for young people, promote inclusive economic growth, attract private-sector investments, and further consolidate Enugu State’s position as the leading agro-industrial hub in the South-East.
The South East Agro Development Programme is widely regarded as one of the most ambitious regional agricultural initiatives in recent years, with stakeholders expressing optimism that its successful implementation will strengthen food security, drive industrialisation, create sustainable livelihoods, and stimulate long-term economic development across the South-East.
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