SEDC Partners Abia State to Launch Large-Scale Commercial Agriculture Programme
The South East Development Commission (SEDC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Abia State Government to establish a large-scale agricultural development programme aimed at boosting food production, creating jobs, and attracting private investment to the state.
The agreement, signed in Umuahia on Wednesday, marks a major step toward transforming agriculture in Abia from small-scale subsistence farming into a modern commercial sector capable of driving economic growth.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, the Abia State Commissioner for Agriculture, Cliff Agbaeze, said the initiative is part of the state’s long-term agricultural strategy introduced in 2025.
According to him, the programme is designed to increase agricultural productivity, improve farmers’ incomes, create employment opportunities, and boost the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR).
He explained that suitable farmland has already been identified for mechanised farming following inspections by the commission. Under the partnership, the Abia State Government will provide the required land, while the SEDC will facilitate investments and coordinate the development of the agricultural projects.
The Managing Director of the South East Development Commission, Mark Okoye, represented by Executive Director of Finance Stanley Ohajuruka, described the agreement as a significant milestone for the South-East region.
He said the partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to unlocking the region’s agricultural potential through collaboration between government, communities, development partners, and the private sector.
Mr. Okoye noted that the South-East possesses fertile land, hardworking farmers, and an energetic youth population capable of driving agricultural transformation if given the necessary support and investment.
He added that the commission’s success would be measured by the number of investments attracted, jobs created, communities empowered, and the positive impact on the lives of ordinary people.
Although the partnership has now been formalised, officials disclosed that the commencement date for the Abia project has not yet been fixed. A steering committee will first be established to oversee implementation before the programme officially begins.
The initiative is expected to position Abia as one of the leading agricultural investment destinations in the South-East while supporting food security and sustainable economic development across the region.
SEDC, Abia sign agro development partnership agreement
