The Enugu State Government is set to launch an ambitious initiative aimed at transforming agriculture in the region by establishing 260 Smart Farm Estates. This project, known as “One Ward, One Smart Farm Estate,” was announced by the state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialization, Mr. Patrick Ubru, during a recent inspection of a pilot site in Akpawfu, Nkanu East Local Government Area.
With a budget allocation of N2 billion for 2025, the initiative is designed to cover all 260 political wards across Enugu’s 17 local government areas. It aims to engage residents in farming and promote agricultural development as a means to diversify the state’s economy and boost Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
Ubru emphasized the importance of community involvement, urging individuals, cooperative societies, and agricultural agencies to collaborate on the project. He highlighted that the initiative will not only provide opportunities for local farmers but also address pressing issues such as youth unemployment and food insecurity.
The pilot Smart Farm Estate will span 200 hectares and be allocated to 200 local farmers, each responsible for cultivating specific crops. Plans include essential infrastructure such as uninterrupted electricity, water supply, and irrigation systems to support farming activities. Additionally, a central warehouse is under construction to assist farmers in managing their produce effectively.
Workshops will be organized to equip farmers with modern agricultural practices and skills. Ubru expressed confidence in the project’s potential to create a positive impact on the community and align with Governor Peter Mbah’s vision for agricultural advancement in Enugu State.
