The South East Development Commission (SEDC) on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Abia State to formalise its partnership as host for the commission’s Agro Development Programme.
Abia State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Cliff Agbaeze, who spoke at the signing ceremony in Umuahia, said the journey began in 2025.
“This vision, captured in the Abia Ministry of Agriculture’s strategic documents, focuses on large-scale agricultural development. It aims to transition the sector from subsistence to commercial farming, empower the economy, and create a sustainable agricultural industry that will significantly contribute to the state’s GDP, generate employment, and boost Internally Generated Revenue (IGR),” Agbaeze said.
He added: “As this happens, we also envision moving our people from hand-to-mouth agriculture to a system that not only puts food on their tables but also puts money in their pockets.”
Agbaeze explained that the commission had inspected and selected suitable farm locations for mechanised agriculture, a process that led to the legal formalities culminating in the signing of the MoU.
He said the collaboration would see Abia State provide the land while the SEDC would catalyse investment into the agro sector.
“So, that’s why we are here. The agreements have been drawn up, and we have copies. The commission has sent a high-powered delegation, including my dear brother,” he said.
“We look forward to a full rollout as soon as possible after this agreement. On that note, I thank you very much for coming.”
The Managing Director of SEDC, Mr Mark Okoye, represented by the Executive Director of Finance, Chief Stanley Ohajuruka, described the signing as important, saying it reflected a shared understanding that the future of the South East must be built differently.
Okoye noted that the South East has always been known for enterprise, hard work, resilience, and farming. He emphasised that the region possesses enormous opportunities with its fertile land and energetic, resourceful people.
He stressed that in the midst of these endowments, the SEDC and state governments must create the right environment to unlock the region’s potential through deliberate action, strong partnerships, and commitment.
“Beyond the document we are signing today is a commitment to create opportunities, strengthen communities, and build a future that delivers real value to our people,” Okoye said.
“As a commission, we understand that our work does not end here. The true measure of success will be the investments attracted, jobs created, communities empowered, and the impact felt by ordinary citizens.”
On the sidelines, Okoye told reporters that the take-off date for the Abia project is not yet certain as the steering committee is yet to be constituted. He noted that unlike Enugu, whose project is expected to begin in three weeks, Abia’s timeline depends on the formation of the committee.
Members of the SEDC delegation included:
- Chief Stanley Ohajuruka (Executive Director, Finance, SEDC)
- Dr Cliff Ogbede (Executive Director, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Rural Development, SEDC)
- Chief Daniel Akwari (Board Member Representing Abia)
- Mr Nnanna Obeta (Head, Legal Services, SEDC)
- Mr Nnamdi Umunnabuike (Technical Assistant to ED NRARD)
