Okpebholo flags off 2025 farming seasons, promises to position Edo as a leader in agriculture in Nigeria

The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo on Thursday flagged off the 2025 farming season in the state with a promise to position the state as a leader in agriculture in Nigeria.

Okpebholo, who was represented by the State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, noted that part of the governor Okpebholo-led government’s policies to boost agriculture was the allocation of N70 billion to the sector in this year’s budget and the “Back to Farm Initiative.”

He said the flagging off of the 2025 farming season is an important step in his government’s efforts to improve agriculture, ensure enough food for citizens, and help farmers grow more and earn better incomes.

He said the N70 billion allocation to the sector was an indication of how serious the government is in transforming agriculture and making it a big contributor to the state’s economy.

“Since we took office in November 2024, we have made it clear that agriculture is a key part of our development plans. We understand that farming creates jobs, grows our economy,, and puts food on our tables. That is why my administration has worked hard to improve the agricultural sector” he said.

Okpebholo stated that under the “Back to Farm Initiative”, the government would prepare large farmlands across the three Senatorial districts for large-scale farming.

The governor explained that by grouping farmlands together, farmers would have better access to tractors, improved seeds, fertilizers, and modern farming methods.

He said these would not only improve food production but also create thousands of jobs, attract investors, and position the state as a leader in agriculture.

The governor added that to make farming easier; the government would ensure that farmers are provided with modern equipment and machines to reduce the hard labor in farming.

Other incentives are mproving support for farmers by deploying trained extension officers to guide and advise farmers in real-time.

“Building better roads, storage facilities, and irrigation systems to help farmers transport their goods and reduce waste.

“Encouraging private businesses to invest in farming and food processing to create more jobs and increase profit from farm produce”, he added.

The governor, however, encourages farmers to take advantage of the season, use improved farming methods, and contribute to making Edo state a top player in agriculture in Nigeria.

Earlier, Dr. Osagie Aibuedefe Peter, the State Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, noted that the 2025 farming season signals not just the start of a new agricultural cycle, but also the beginning of renewed hope for the farmers and food systems.

Read also: Edo Internal Revenue Service assures Okpebholo of generating N120bn IGR annually

Peter opined that Governor Monday Okpebholo within the short period in office has taken bold steps to reposition agriculture as a driver of inclusive growth and economic resilience.

“One of the most remarkable of these steps is the launch of the “Back to Farm” Initiative, through which over 1,500 hectares of farmland are being developed across the state.

“This ambitious programme aims to support both smallholder and commercial farmers with access to land, inputs, and extension service, ultimately boosting productivity and ensuring food security for our people.

“This year, as we step into the planting season, we do so with renewed energy and clear direction. From land clearing and mechanization to improved seeds and farmer support programs.

“We are also deepening ongoing initiatives such as the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Programme (LPRES), promoting climate-smart practices, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring our farmers are equipped to face the challenges of the modern agricultural landscape, ” he added.

He, however, urged all stakeholders in the agricultural sector in the state to seize the opportunity of the launching of the 2025 farming season to collaborate, innovate, and ensure that agriculture remains a pathway to prosperity in Edo State.

In their separate goodwill messages, the State chairman of All Farmers Association (AFAN), Alhaji Bako Dogwo and his National Palm Produce Association of Nigeria (NNPAN), Mr Atoe Edosa commended Governor Okpebholo for the launching of the farming season.

They, however, called on the governor to address the insecurity in the state especially herdsmen and kidnappers which they noted has impending agricultural development in the state.