The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed a motion, urging Governor Chukwuma Soludo to direct relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to commence the establishment of Agricultural Innovation and Development Centres across the three senatorial zones of the state.
The House during its plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Mr Somtochukwu Udeze, adopted the motion which aims at improving agricultural productivity in the state.
The motion, sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Mr Chukwuma Okoye, and co-sponsored by 27 other lawmakers, emphasizes agriculture as the backbone of Anambra’s economy and a key livelihood for its citizens.
Okoye, who represents Awka South Constituency 2 , highlighted the need for modern technologies like precision farming, hydroponics, greenhouse cultivation, drone applications, and ICT-driven solutions to improve yield, combat climate change, and attract younger generations to agriculture.
He expressed concern over the high rate of post-harvest losses in the state, noting that over 40 per cent of farm produce, including rice, cassava, yams, vegetables, palm produce and fruits, are lost annually due to inadequate storage, processing and packaging facilities.
According to him, these losses reduce farmers’ income, lower productivity and limit access to modern technologies, thereby negatively affecting the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
He called for the establishment of at least one smart farming and agritech demonstration centre in each of the three senatorial zones, with provisions made in the state budget.
“The proposed centres,” he said, “would train farmers and youths on modern farming techniques, promote agritech entrepreneurship, encourage climate-smart agriculture and significantly improve the agricultural sector.”
He further advocated for the creation of agricultural produce processing and packaging hubs alongside the smart farming and agritech centres, saying that such initiatives would ensure regional inclusiveness, reduce unemployment, create new agricultural value chains and position Anambra State as a hub for agricultural innovation in Nigeria.
Hon. Ikwunne Chimezie, member representing Awka North constituency, described commercial agriculture as a profitable venture, noting that government-sponsored large-scale greenhouse farming could help eradicate poverty and unemployment in the state.
He added that experiences from countries such as South Africa have shown that government-backed commercial agriculture yields significant returns on investment, while creating massive employment opportunities for youths.
Supporting the Motion, Mr Johnbosco Akaegbobi representing Nnewi South Constituency 2, who said he is one of the biggest farmers in the state, noted that there is a need to set up a greenhouse in all the zones as agriculture remains a very sustainable venture.
The Member representing Awka North Constituency, Mr Chimezie Ikwune, said the commercial and mechanized system of Agriculture remains a sure way to feed a nation and eradicate unemployment, especially amongst the youths.
The Majority Leader of the House, Mr Ikenna Ofodeme said the innovation and creation of agricultural centers in the three Senatorial zones of the state, will no doubt boost productivity, guarantee food security and increase the state Internally Generated Revenue.
Following deliberations, the motion received the in support of members of the House and was read and passed by the Anambra State House of Assembly, with the Speaker presiding.
