In a decisive move to address food insecurity and boost agricultural production in Edo State, Gov. Monday Okpebholo has approved over N70 billion for the agriculture sector in the state’s 2025 budget.
The budget, titled “Renewed Hope for a Rising Edo,” was signed into law by the governor on Wednesday. It focuses on economic revitalization, agricultural transformation, and infrastructure development to deliver the dividends of democracy to Edo citizens.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Governor Okpebholo emphasized the administration’s commitment to combating the acute food shortage affecting the country and ensuring food self-sufficiency for Edo State.
“As a people-centric government, we are determined to address the rising food crisis and place Edo State at the forefront of agricultural revolution. This significant budgetary allocation reflects our resolve to achieve food sufficiency and support the livelihoods of our people,” Okpebholo said.
The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, presented the revised budget, which was increased from N605 billion to N675 billion. He noted that the upward adjustment was necessitated by the pressing need to fund agricultural initiatives to meet the food demands of the state.
“Given the current food insecurity in the country, we carefully reviewed the budget and prioritized the agriculture sector to ensure food sufficiency for Edo State.
“This significant increase will drive our goal of transforming agriculture and mitigating the impact of food shortages.”Agbebaku explained.
Gov. Okpebholo also reiterated plans to roll out mechanized farming across the state’s three senatorial districts in early 2025. This initiative is expected to not only address food security challenges but also position Edo State as an exporter of agricultural produce to neighboring states.
