Engr. Mike Ogbuekwe, the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship candidate for Nkanu East Local Government Area, has commended the South East Development Commission (SEDC) for launching its agro-mechanisation project in Nomeh Unateze, Enugu State.
Ogbuekwe described the initiative as an opportunity to improve agricultural productivity, create jobs and expand economic opportunities for rural communities. He spoke at the project’s flag-off ceremony in Nomeh Unateze, a community in Nkanu East.
Also, the initiative forms part of the SEDC’s wider agricultural development programme for the South-East. The commission says its plans include pilot farms across the region’s 15 senatorial zones.
Also, the project is also expected to support food production and agricultural skills development. Related coverage includes SEDC’s plan to establish agro-mechanisation projects across the South-East.
Ogbuekwe Welcomes Project’s Location in Nkanu East
Ogbuekwe said the project’s location in Nomeh Unateze held particular significance for him because of his connection to Nkanu East. He also referred to his previous work in agricultural development while serving as Special Adviser on Agriculture to Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah.
Also, the APC candidate recalled participating in discussions about the conceptualisation of the Farm Estate model during his time as special adviser. He said the agricultural approach later featured in discussions involving the SEDC.
According to Ogbuekwe, Governor Mbah encouraged the commission to adopt and implement the model in Enugu State. He added that the governor provided support and partnership as the commission began its operations.
The project adds to the development initiatives being pursued in Enugu State. Other related reports include Governor Mbah’s development agenda and NACCIMA’s comments on Enugu’s economic ambitions.
SEDC Plans 15 Agro-Mechanisation Projects
Also, the Nomeh Unateze initiative is the first of 15 agro-mechanisation projects planned across the South-East’s 15 senatorial zones. The commission says it intends to develop pilot farms ranging from 200 to 300 hectares in each zone.
Its broader target is to develop up to 50,000 hectares for mechanised farming across the region. The programme is intended to strengthen agricultural production and address challenges such as food insecurity and unemployment. (MUK TV NEWS)
SEDC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mark Okoye has said the pilot farms will focus on staple crops such as cassava and maize, alongside selected cash crops. Some locations are also expected to feature learning and productivity centres.
The regional programme is designed to support farming and related economic activities. Also, it connects with wider development efforts, including the SEDC’s planned agro-mechanisation project in Enugu.
Project Expected to Support Jobs and Food Production
Ogbuekwe said the initiative could contribute to youth empowerment, food production, job creation and rural development. He added that the project could create further economic opportunities for residents of Nkanu East.
The SEDC has similarly described agro-mechanisation as part of its strategy to improve food security and stimulate economic activity across the South-East. Its plans include agricultural production and facilities intended to support learning and productivity. (AgroNigeria – AgroNigeria)
Ogbuekwe attended the ceremony alongside members and supporters of the Ije Awele Movement. They joined other stakeholders who gathered to identify with the development initiative.
The project is among the regional and state development activities attracting attention in Enugu. Related reports include the community sensitisation exercise in six Enugu communities and Enugu’s plans to expand agro-mechanisation and reduce unemployment.
Ogbuekwe Says Initiative Could Bring Tangible Benefits
Ogbuekwe expressed appreciation for witnessing the project’s commencement in Nomeh Unateze. He said he hoped the initiative would translate into practical opportunities for residents.
“For me, this was more than just attending another event. It was encouraging to witness an initiative of this scale being launched here in Nkanu East and to see our communities positioned to benefit from regional agricultural development,” he said.
He also reaffirmed his interest in supporting programmes focused on agriculture, youth empowerment and economic opportunities at the grassroots. His comments centred on the potential benefits of the project for the host community and surrounding areas.
The initiative comes amid other infrastructure and economic development programmes in Enugu State. These include the state’s planned 50,000-hectare agro-mechanisation initiative and the NACCIMA-backed economic growth agenda.
SEDC Projects ₦4bn to ₦5bn in Additional Investment
The SEDC has projected that the Nomeh Unateze project could attract between ₦4 billion and ₦5 billion in additional investment to the area. The commission says agriculture and mechanised farming form part of its broader economic development blueprint for the South-East. (AgroNigeria – AgroNigeria)
The anticipated investment could support economic activity around the project, although the commission’s projection does not establish that the full amount has already been invested. The programme is expected to develop through implementation of the agricultural project and associated activities.
Ogbuekwe said he looked forward to seeing the initiative create meaningful opportunities for local residents. He also reiterated his support for development programmes that promote agricultural growth and improve livelihoods.
Other stories on Enugu’s development priorities include the state’s efforts to attract investment and the agro-mechanisation project planned for Nomeh Unateze.
Project Forms Part of Wider South-East Development Plans
The SEDC has said its agricultural programme forms part of a regional strategy to expand food production, create employment and stimulate investment. The commission’s planned pilot farms are intended to provide a model that can be developed across the South-East.
Also, the Nomeh Unateze project is being implemented in partnership with the Enugu State Government. The initiative is expected to contribute to agricultural activity and provide new opportunities for farmers, young people and other residents.
Ogbuekwe’s remarks highlighted the importance he attaches to the project’s location in Nkanu East. He said he hoped its implementation would deliver tangible benefits to the community and support wider grassroots development.
Further reports on Enugu’s development efforts include the Nenwe-Nomeh-Mburubu-Nara road and related community access issues, Enugu’s community development programme, and the state’s economic development agenda.
