Reported by: Agande Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Henry Owen
Umuahia, Abia State — Governor Alex Otti has reiterated his administration’s resolve to transform agriculture into a business-driven sector capable of driving Abia State’s economic growth, reducing unemployment, and enhancing food security.
The governor made this known on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, while receiving a delegation from the Agriculture and Rural Management Training Institute (ARMTI), led by its Executive Director, Dr. Olufeme Oladunni, at the Government House, Umuahia.
Governor Otti described Abia as a state where nearly 70% of the population engages in one form of agricultural activity or another, noting that with the right training and support, the sector could significantly boost the state’s GDP and revenue generation.
“This is a place where 70% of the population engage in agriculture one way or another. A smaller percentage are into commercial farming, but we are looking at upgrading both subsistence and commercial farmers to operate as agribusinesses because we see agriculture as business,” Governor Otti said.
He highlighted that agriculture currently contributes about 23–24% of Abia’s GDP, stressing that modern, climate-smart agricultural practices could further increase the sector’s impact while creating more jobs for young people.
The governor recalled that his administration had previously sponsored the training of over 300 young Abians at the CSS Farms in Nasarawa State, noting that 298 of them are now active and successful farmers. He said the state is ready to strengthen collaboration with ARMTI to expand training and agribusiness opportunities.
Governor Otti also commended ARMTI for choosing Abia as its Southeast regional headquarters, describing the decision as strategic and timely.
“You couldn’t have made a better decision because we have the right people who will support you. I know there are still areas where we can do more to make you comfortable and productive,” he assured.
He directed the Director-General of the Greater Ohafia Development Authority (GODA) to ensure the institute’s smooth establishment in the state by providing suitable office space, accommodation, and local support.
Earlier in his remarks, Dr. Olufeme Oladunni, Executive Director of ARMTI, expressed the institute’s readiness to partner with the Abia State Government in youth empowerment and agricultural development.
“Our mandate is to train and empower people, especially the youth, in agriculture. We have programmes such as the Village Alive Development Initiative, and we are ready to work with GODA to design and implement impactful agricultural projects in Abia,” Dr. Oladunni stated.
He also commended Governor Otti for his visionary leadership and practical steps toward reviving agriculture and rural development in the state.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, and the Director-General of GODA, among other dignitaries.
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