By Tony Obiechina, Abuja
The Federal government has approved a pilot scheme for the massive production of cassava in the Southeast region of the country.
The Permanent Secretary in the ministry of Budget and National Planning, Mr Nebolisa Anako disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Enugu State Governor, Mr Peter Mbah, at the Government House, Enugu.
According to him, the pilot project would begin with the sensitisation programme on biosphere, cassava, and palm production, adding adding that the Federal government was ready to collaborate with the state government to grow the economy.
Mr. Nebeolisa also disclosed that the project would grow the economy, attract massive employments, and engage the youths.
He added that the federal government would be making grants available to Enugu farmers in respect of the project.
The Permanent Secretary expressed delight at the warm reception accorded him with member of his delegation which comprised a multi-sectorial team members eager to chart the way forward for the development of the country’s economy.
In his remarks, the Governor disclosed plans by the Government to earmark over 100,000 hectares of land to boost cassava production for export.
While noting that his administration had already identified agriculture as one of the productivity sectors that would drive development and growth in the state, the governor said cassava production would go beyond consumption to export.
He said that the value chain that would generate revenue for the people such as cassava flour, cassava cake, cassava chips, among others, would be created from cassava production.
“This project is in sync with our developmental plan. We’ve identified agriculture as one of the productivity sectors.
“Enugu has arable land that yields five times more than other states. We will be working with you closely in this regard and we’re ready to provide you all the things you need to start the pilot project in our state,” Dr Mbah added.
