Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has sworn in Professor Ikechi Mgbeoji as the new Commissioner for Agriculture with a charge to him to run an inclusive administration in the Ministry as well as collaborate with his colleagues and other experts to deliver the agrarian policy thrust of the government.
Speaking while performing the swearing-in ceremony at Government House, Umuahia, the Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu charged him to ensure that agriculture in the State becomes an established tool for economic development in the State as it is one of the pillars of development of his administration.
Governor Ikpeazu said his administration is desirous of delivering the Ubani-Ibeku Agro-Industrial Cluster in Umuahia which would house cassava processing plants and other key components of the agricultural value chain.
He said that he expects the new Commissioner to ensure warehouses are built in Umuahia, Aba, Ohafia and other sub towns in the State where Abia rice (OSIKAPA ABIA) would be sold. He expressed joy that so far Abia State is improving in rice production and said that he is passionate about the increase in the production of other cash crops such as oil palm, cocoa etc.
The State Chief Executive who challenged the new Commissioner to ensure that every LGA in the State gets at least two cottage agricultural industries charged him to bring his wealth of experience to bear in his appointment and congratulated him.
In his acceptance speech, the newly sworn-in Commissioner for Agriculture, Professor Ikechi Mgboji thanked the Governor for finding him feat to serve in the administration. He assured that he would discharge his duties effectively as one who has Abia State in heart, promising to ensure the admissions delivers on its mandate.
Onyebuchi Ememanka, Esq
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
28th October 2019
