In a bold move to tackle food insecurity and boost agricultural production, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has earmarked over N70 billion for the agricultural sector in the 2025 budget.
The budget, tagged “Renewed Hope for a Rising Edo,” is designed to revive the state’s economy and deliver democratic dividends with a strong focus on agricultural revolution, food production, and infrastructural development.
Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Fred Itua quoted him while signing the budget into law, to have emphasized his administration’s commitment to people-centered approach, pledging to address food shortages and make Edo food-sufficient.
He stated that the increased allocation reflects the government’s commitment to improving food security and uplifting citizens amid the current economic challenges facing the country.
Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, highlighted the rationale behind increasing the total budget from N605 billion to N675 billion, noting that the decision was driven by the urgent need to address food insecurity and create food sufficiency in the state.
“We carefully reviewed the budget and decided to prioritize agriculture, given the current food challenges in the country,” Hon. Agbebaku said.
He added that the budget also provides funds for infrastructural projects across all constituencies in the state.
Governor Okpebholo’s administration plans to roll out massive mechanized farming across the state’s three senatorial districts by early 2025, a move expected to boost food production, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.
The Governor expressed optimism that the agricultural revolution would not only meet local food demands but also position Edo as a key exporter of agricultural produce to neighboring states.
With this strategic investment in agriculture, Edo State is set to lead Nigeria’s food security drive, ensuring a sustainable food supply and economic prosperity for its people.
