World Food Day: Anambra Develops Agribusiness Strategy To Boost Food Production
By Ebele Ezeh | IchieTimes
Anambra State Government is developing an Agribusiness Transformation Strategy aimed at improving food production, strengthening agricultural markets and attracting investment, as the state joins global efforts to advance food security.
The Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Ben Odoemena, announced this during the 2026 World Food Day celebration organised by the Anambra State Coordination Office of the Federal Government and International Fund for Agricultural Development Value Chain Development Programme, FGN IFAD VCDP, at the Agricultural Development Programme office in Awka.
Represented by the Commissioner for Environment, Dr Clem Aguiyi, Odoemena said the proposed strategy would focus on creating reliable markets and repositioning agriculture to deliver higher productivity, food sufficiency and economic growth.
He urged farmers and investors to embrace modern agricultural practices, including improved seeds and planting materials, irrigation, mechanisation, climate smart farming, modern livestock and aquaculture systems, better storage and processing facilities, digital technology and stronger value chains.
The commissioner stressed that food security requires the participation of government, farmers, investors and other stakeholders.
Rice, cassava farmers showcase products
The State Programme Coordinator of FGN IFAD VCDP, Dr Deborah Onyefulu, represented by the State Rural Institution Gender and Mainstreaming Officer, Mr Ikechukwu Anyasie, said the programme supports rice and cassava production while promoting nutritious food products to encourage more balanced diets.
She expressed satisfaction with the range of rice and cassava products displayed by participating farmers, noting that the development aligns with the programme’s objectives of increasing household income and improving food security.
The exhibition also highlighted the potential of agricultural processing and value addition to expand market opportunities for farmers and other participants in the food supply chain.
Stakeholders call for greater investment in agriculture
In a goodwill message, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, represented by the ministry’s State Coordinator, Engineer Samuel Ekwolo, commended the Anambra State Government for its agricultural initiatives.
The Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka of Obosi, represented by the council’s State Secretary, Igwe Charles Agbala of Uke, encouraged Ndi Anambra to invest in agriculture.
Also speaking, the Acting State Business and Marketing Development Officer of FGN IFAD VCDP, Mrs Mary Obiekwe, described the theme of the celebration, “Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow,” as a call to transform agricultural production and strengthen food security.
She urged government, entrepreneurs, farmers and other stakeholders to work together to increase food production and ensure that agricultural innovation translates into tangible benefits for households and the wider economy.
The celebration brought together government representatives, traditional rulers, farmers and other stakeholders, drawing attention to the need for improved production methods, stronger markets and increased investment in agriculture.
Anambra’s proposed Agribusiness Transformation Strategy is expected to provide a framework for addressing some of these priorities, although its specific measures and implementation timeline were not detailed at the event.
