Enugu Partners with SEDC to Boost Regional Agro-Industrial Growth, Allocates 52,000 Hectares for Agricultural Development

Emmanuel Ugwu‑Nwogo in Enugu

The Enugu State Government has partnered with the South East Development Commission (SEDC) to boost agro‑industrial development in the region.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the South East Agro Development Programme (SEADP) was signed yesterday at the Enugu Government House by the state government and SEDC.

The partnership is intended to transform agriculture into a driver of economic growth, industrialisation and food security across the South‑East.

Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, acting for Governor Peter Mbah, said the administration is committed to building a strong agricultural economy that will fuel industrial growth and expand the state’s wealth base.

He noted that the government’s goal of growing Enugu’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion will largely rely on strategic investments in agriculture, value addition and agro‑processing.

The SSG added that the state has been creating an enabling environment to attract investment through improved security, regulatory reforms and investor‑friendly policies.

He revealed that more than 52,000 hectares of land have already been earmarked for agricultural development, signalling government support while protecting the interests of host communities.

Mark Okoye, Managing Director of SEDC, was represented by Executive Director of Projects Toby Okechukwu, who called the agreement a landmark initiative that will unlock the region’s agricultural potential.

Okechukwu said the partnership would attract critical investment into agriculture, strengthen food security and accelerate sustainable agro‑industrial development across the South‑East.

He praised the Enugu State Government for improving security and creating an investment‑friendly environment that continues to inspire investor confidence.

Dr. Patrick Uburu, State Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro‑Industrialisation, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating it would fast‑track agricultural transformation in the state.

According to him, this will be achieved through the development of about 52,000 hectares of farmland across designated farm estates, boosting food production and agro‑industrial activities.

Enugu State Liaison Officer to SEDC, Mr. Edeani M. Edeani, described the MoU as a significant milestone in the pursuit of regional economic integration.

He said the partnership underscores the shared commitment of both partners to harness the state’s agricultural resources for the benefit of farmers, investors and local communities.

Edeani added that the initiative will create employment opportunities for youths, promote inclusive economic growth and further position Enugu as a leading agro‑industrial hub in the South‑East.