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From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
The South East Development Commission (SEDC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Abia State Government formalising the partnership between the SEDC and the state government under the South East Agro Development Programme.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Governor Alex Otti said his administration is committed to transforming agriculture from subsistence farming into a commercially viable, economically sustainable and wealth-creating sector.
Represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, Otti explained that the government’s strategic vision was focused on developing large-scale mechanised agriculture capable of making significant contributions to the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and creating thousands of jobs and increasing the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
“The vision, which has also been captured in the strategic document of the Ministry of Agriculture, focuses on large-scale agricultural development, transitioning agriculture from a subsistence system to a commercial, economically empowering and sustainable sector.”
Otti emphasised that the ultimate goal was not only to guarantee food security but, also, to improve the economic wellbeing of farmers by moving them beyond subsistence production to profitable commercial agriculture.
He disclosed that discussions with the South East Development Commission began several months ago, following the establishment of the Commission to drive development across the Southeast region. He revealed that Abia State was among the first states to engage with the Commission by submitting a comprehensive concept note.
He further explained that, under the partnership, the Abia State government will provide suitable land, while the South East Development Commission will facilitate investments, technical support, and development initiatives that will stimulate growth across the agricultural value chain.
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In his speech, the Managing Director/CEO of SEDC, Mark Okoye, said the South East Agro Development Programme is not only about cultivating land. He said it is about creating opportunities and strengthening agricultural value chains to attract investment, create jobs, and build a stronger foundation for long-term economic growth.
Represented by the Executive Director, Finance, SEDC, Rt. Hon Stanley Ohajuruka, Okoye said the programme was equally aimed at giving young people in South East reasons to see agriculture differently, not as a sector of limited possibilities, but as a sector of innovation, enterprise, and opportunity.
“I must commend the Government of Abia State under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Alex Otti, for the commitment and attention being given to strengthening productive sectors and supporting sustainable economic growth.
“The efforts aimed at supporting farmers, building capacity, and creating systems that encourage long-term development, demonstrate a recognition that real progress comes when institutions invest in people and create the conditions for growth”.
Okoye stated that the future the South East region needs will not happen by chance, but through deliberate action, strong partnerships, and a commitment to doing the work required to create lasting impact. He noted that the South East has always been known for her enterprise, hard work, and resilience.
“Our people have never been afraid of work, and agriculture has always been a significant part of our story. Many of us grew up in communities where farming was more than an occupation; it was part of everyday life. The land fed families, created livelihoods, and supported local economies. Agriculture was not simply about survival; it was a means of building opportunity.
“I believe that if we remain focused and continue to work together, we will look back years from now and recognise this as one of those important steps that helped unlock greater opportunities for our people and strengthened the economic future of our region”, Okoye added.
