Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has flagged off a 50,000-hectare rice cultivation project as part of effort to ensure food security
Flagging off the scheme at Ndok community in Ogoja Local GovernmentArea, Governor Otu said the initiative will be supported by a credit scheme that will allow the state to allocate N150 million monthly to agriculture.
Otu said there will be direct collaboration with rice farmers to cultivate the extensive 50,000 hectares.
The governor, who underscored his commitment to partnering rice farmers, said: “We are engaging with groups of farmers, as part of our agricultural revolution, focusing initially on short-term cash crops like rice, cocoa, and cassava.
“We are also progressing towards the development of oil palm and rubber plantations.”
Acknowledging the importance of food and energy security, Otu also assured farmers of government’s full support, saying: “We are committed to working along with every farmer, and ensuring the provision of essential resources.
“I also want to extend this assurance to the traditional leaders, while reminding them of our long-term commitment to this course.”
Governor Otu disclosed a credit-guarantee scheme has been established to facilitate financial assistance for dedicated farmers, just as he highlighted the scheme’s independence from the government.
He urged individuals to take action, rather than waiting on the sidelines. He noted that there were abundant resources bestowed upon the state by divine providence.
Otu, who emphasised the importance of clear policies to attract private sector investments, also outlined the state’s commitment to making agriculture the bedrock of the economy.
The governor said significant investments have been made in acquiring new tractors to enhance mechanisation efforts.