The Abia State Government has launched a renewed drive to reclaim and revive abandoned and underutilised farm settlements across the state as part of a broader strategy to transform agriculture into a major economic growth engine.
Governor Alex Otti, OFR, made this known on Tuesday while receiving members of the Executive Management Committee of the Anambra–Imo River Basin Development Authority, led by its Chairman, Senator Emmanuel Anosike, during a working visit to Government House, Umuahia.
The Governor described agriculture as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy and emphasized that Abia State is deliberately moving away from subsistence farming toward commercial, mechanised agriculture driven by a strong value chain. According to him, the state already has comprehensive data on existing farm settlements, many of which were established decades ago but later abandoned or poorly utilized.
Governor Otti noted that the recovery of these settlements has already begun, with plans to fully rehabilitate and reposition them for productive use. He stressed that agriculture remains the largest employer of labour in Nigeria and holds vast potential for job creation, food security, and industrial growth.
Highlighting the importance of value addition, the Governor explained that the state’s agricultural vision goes beyond raw produce. He stated that Abia aims to process its agricultural outputs locally, adding value and increasing revenue, rather than exporting unprocessed commodities.
Governor Otti assured the visiting delegation of the state’s readiness to collaborate with the Anambra–Imo River Basin Development Authority to achieve food sufficiency and stimulate economic development. He directed relevant ministries, departments, and agencies, including Agriculture, Lands, Power and Public Utilities, to form a joint technical team that would immediately begin work with the River Basin Authority.
He also reiterated the state government’s continued investment in the power sector, describing electricity as a critical enabler of agricultural processing, industrialisation, and overall development.
The Governor commended Senator Anosike for his long-standing personal support and acknowledged his contributions since his entry into politics.
Earlier, Senator Emmanuel Anosike explained that the visit was part of a regional engagement tour following the inauguration of the new board by the President. He said the Anambra–Imo River Basin Development Authority, which serves the five South-East states, is committed to partnering with state governments to unlock vast agricultural and irrigation potential.
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Senator Anosike revealed that the Authority has extensive land assets, active irrigation projects in Abia State, and a history of successful agricultural brands. He added that beyond farming, the Authority is also involved in renewable energy initiatives such as solar power, creating multiple opportunities for collaboration.
The meeting was attended by top government officials, including the Acting Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff, Commissioners for key ministries, and heads of major development agencies within the state.