Edo State has recorded its first maize harvest at the state-owned Udomi Farm Settlement in Esan Central Local Government Area, marking an early outcome of the government’s agricultural expansion efforts. 

The development signals early success for Governor Monday Okpebholo’s Agricultural Revolution Policy, aimed at boosting productivity, creating jobs and diversifying the state’s economy.

Speaking to journalists after the conclusion of Phase One of the state’s “Back to Farm Initiative”, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr Jerry Uwangue, stated that the government is projecting over a 100 per cent return on investment from the maize project.

According to him, harvesting is ongoing across the farm settlement, while land clearing has already commenced in preparation for the 2026 farming season. 

He also mentioned that the simultaneous harvesting and land preparation reflect the administration’s focus on efficiency, sustainability and year-round agricultural activity.

“Phase One of the Back to Farm Initiative has just been completed, and the results have been encouraging. We are expecting more than 100 per cent return on investment, with Phase Two already in sight,” Uwangue said.

Governor Okpebholo, during a recent visit to the farm, reiterated his administration’s commitment to practical, results-driven governance and to using agriculture as a tool for economic transformation.

Uwangue explained that the state has adopted a cluster farming model, in whichfarmers are grouped, supported and closely monitored by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. 

The approach, he says, improves security, enhances productivity and creates structured employment opportunities, particularly for young people.

Under the model, the government provides land clearing, seedlings, equipment, extension support, and guaranteed off-takers, while ensuring adequate security across farming clusters in the Edo South, Central, and North Senatorial Districts.

Dr Uwangue disclosed that maize has been harvested from over 100 hectares at Udomi Farm, with immediate plans to expand cultivation as more than 60 per cent of available land is cleared. 

He stressed that the current harvest is targeted at local consumption to stabilise food supply and prices within the state.

“Our priority is to meet local demand before considering exports,” he said, adding that the state is also investing in cassava, cocoa and oil palm value chains to promote sustainable livelihoods and climate-smart agriculture.

The Edo State Government has completed soil analysis tests at Iguoriakhi and other farm settlements across Edo South and North. 

The results will guide the deployment of improved seedlings and farming techniques to further boost food production.

Source: Independent News