By Nefishetu Yakubu

The Edo Government has allocated 3,000 hectares of farmland across the three senatorial districts in the state under the Back to Farm project of Gov. Monday Okpebholo to ensure food sufficiency.

It would be recalled that about 60 hectares (148 acres) had been cultivated in Iguoriakhi, Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo, to kick off the 2025 farming season.

Speaking during an inspection of the farm at Iguoriakhi, Okpebholo said that the initiative was the first phase of his Back to Farm project.

According to him, the initiative aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for national food sufficiency.

Okpebholo, who was led on the tour of the farm settlement by Dr Osagie Peter, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, said that his administration would replicate the initiative in Edo Central and Edo North to ensure food sufficiency in the state.

The governor assured the farmers of continued support to ensure sufficient food production during the 2025 farming season.

“We are committed to embracing agriculture to grow and develop Edo economy.

“We have prepared many hectares and added another 3,000 hectares for the first phase.

“In line with Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on feeding the nation, Edo State, is fully on board,” Okpebholo said.

Earlier, Osagie disclosed that about 250 farmers would participate in the first phase of the project.

Osagie said that the Iguoriakhi farm settlement, covering 2,300 hectares, was largely dedicated to permanent crops like oil palm and rubber trees.

“Welcome to Iguoriakhi Farm Settlement, acquired in 1962, spanning 2,350 hectares. Much of it is for permanent crops, including oil palm and rubber.

“Currently, we have prepared 60 hectares (148 acres) for tractorisation.

“Five hectares will be allocated to each farm group, benefiting 250 farm heads and ensuring food security,” Osagie said.

The governor and his team also visited the Benin Owena River Basin Development Authority Integrated Farm at Obayantor in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, Edo South. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bayo Sekoni