Abia Govt Moves to Boost Economic Growth with Investment in Cocoa Plantations

The Abia State Government has disclosed a groundbreaking initiative to establish six cocoa plantations across the state’s three geo-political zones.

This laudable project was announced by the Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu in his office in Umuahia, aiming to significantly boost the state’s internally generated revenue and create much-needed jobs for its citizens.

According to him, the state government will take full responsibility for funding the project, working closely with the Ministries of Lands and Agriculture.

About 50 hectares of land will be acquired in each of the six selected Local Government Areas (LGAs), of Ikwuano, Isiala Ngwa North, Bende, Ohafia, Obingwa, and Ukwa East.

The Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, revealed that a substantial N1.378 billion has been earmarked for the project, underscoring the government’s commitment to its success.

The initiative has been met with enthusiasm from mayors and stakeholders, who recognise its potential to not only create jobs but also attract investors and increase revenue.

The Mayor of Ikwuano Council, Dr. Anthony Nwaubani and the Deputy Mayor of Obingwa, Dr. Destiny Isiguzoro, commended the project, noting that it will drive sustainable economic growth, create jobs, attract investors, and boost the state’s internally generated revenue.

The Chairman of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria has further suggested that the government utilises the state’s vast forest reserves and create more access roads to facilitate the project’s success.