Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has inaugurated a major distribution initiative for cash crop seedlings across Anambra state.
The program, designed to bolster environmental sustainability and economic growth, aims to distribute 1.04 million seedlings through the state’s 326 political wards via the Umunna system.
The distribution includes:
700,000 palm seedlings
200,000 ukwa seedlings
50,000 bitter kola seedlings
40,000 paw-paw seedlings
Governor Soludo highlighted that this initiative is part of a broader plan to plant 10 million seedlings over the next few years.
He described the initiative as a strategic move to create a new industrial ecosystem, likening it to the next phase of economic development similar to the role of oil in the past.
“This is a celebration of revolution. Our goal is to plant 10 million seedlings in Anambra over the next few years. Palm oil, coconut oil, and other economic trees will become the next major contributors to our economy,” Soludo stated.
Addressing land management issues, the governor acknowledged the shrinking land mass of Anambra due to erosion, stressing the need for careful land usage and management.
He emphasized that while Lagos is expanding its land mass, Anambra faces significant challenges from active erosion sites.
The governor also recalled the historical contributions of past leaders like MI Okpara and Ahmadu Bello, noting that learning from history is crucial for empowering people sustainably.
His words: “Our agenda is to provide sustainable empowerment to over one million households, creating a greener and more sustainable environment.”
Governor Soludo announced that 1.1 million seedlings were distributed between 2022 and 2023, and the new initiative aims to continue this effort with an additional 1 million seedlings each year until reaching the 10 million mark.
He urged communities to participate by preparing land for plantation and assured support in the form of seedlings.
On his part, the Minister for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, represented by Director Arthur Mbuba, praised the initiative as a strong poverty alleviation program and expressed commitment to supporting Anambra State’s agricultural efforts.
Also speaking, Dr. Foster Ihejiofor, Commissioner for Agriculture, described Soludo as a leader with both intellect and compassion, committed to creating a prosperous and sustainable future for Anambra.
He highlighted the program’s strategic importance in enhancing the economy and building a sustainable Anambra.
Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, along with other top officials and members of the State House of Assembly, joined Governor Soludo in launching the program.
Ibezim said the initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to leveraging agriculture for economic growth while addressing environmental challenges, setting a precedent for future development in the state.
