The Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Bassey Otu, has initiated a large-scale rice cultivation project, spanning 50,000 hectares in Ogoja.

The endeavour is supported by a credit scheme, in which the state allocates N150 million monthly, towards agricultural development initiatives.

The ceremony marking the commencement of the project took place in Ndok community, Ogoja Local Government Area of the state.

Otu also affirmed his administration's unwavering dedication to revolutionising the agricultural sector st the project flag-off. 

He emphasised the direct collaboration with rice farmers to cultivate the extensive 50,000 hectares. 

Otu said: "We are engaging with groups of farmers, as part of our agricultural revolution, focusing initially on short-term cash crops like rice, cocoa, and cassava. 

"We are also progressing towards the development of oil palm and rubber plantations."

Acknowledging the critical importance of food and energy security, the governor also assured farmers of the government's full support.

He stated: "We are committed to working along with every farmer, and ensuring the provision of essential resources. 

"I extend this assurance to the traditional leaders. I emphasise our long-term commitment to this course."

A credit-guarantee scheme has been established to facilitate financial assistance for dedicated farmers.

Otu highlighted the scheme's independence from the government, underlining the monthly allocation of N150 million towards the initiative. 

Otu, who urged individuals to seize the opportunity to enhance productivity, emphasised the need for proactive engagement in agriculture.

He further urged individuals to take action, rather than wait passively for sustenance.

He noted that there were abundant resources bestowed upon the state by divine providence, adding that there was the need for industrious efforts.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation, Mr. Johnson Ebekpo Jnr., earlier in his remarks, emphasised the government's strategic approach to agricultural development. 

He also emphasised the importance of clear policies to attract private sector investments, adding that Gov. Otu administration's commitment to making agriculture the cornerstone of the economy was not in doubt.

Ebekpo said: "Significant investments have been made in acquiring new tractors to enhance mechanisation efforts. The tractors, being distributed across the local government areas in Cross River State, will be managed by cooperatives, comprising men and women.

"The initiative aims to empower the youths while supporting small-holder farmers in scaling up their operations."

A rice-cluster farmer, Madam Agatha, also expressed gratitude to the governor for the initiative.

She highlighted the under-utilisation of the state's rice mill, due to productivity constraints, while emphasising the potential for increased production.

The Chairman of the Rice Farmers Association in Cross River, Emmanuel Anoh, made a projection of a minimum rice yield of 6 tonnes per hectare, translating to 140 bags of 50kg rice per hectare.

He  stressed that the significant increase in production capacity was poised to transform the food industry in Nigeria.

Anoh also hailed the Cross River state government's dedicated efforts and expressed confidence that the laudable initiative would benefit the populace.