The Chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area, Enugu State, Dr. Eric Odo, has faulted reports on his recent appointment of Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) on Agriculture to boost food production.
Odo, who was reacting to the criticisms on his appointment of SSAs on Garden egg, yam and pepper.
The LG Chairman told newsmen in Enugu on Wednesday that the appointment of SSAs on Agriculture, specifically on Garden Egg, Yam and Pepper was a strategic move.
According to him, the appointment was meant to boost production of these crops in large quantity to satisfy local demands and for export.
Odo noted that his LGA was good in growing these crops and had great comparative advantage. Hence the need to engage individuals who had the competence to develop that aspect of agriculture.
He said, “Their appointments are to ensure that local farmers receive adequate attention, needed resources and support. To provide them with expertise to enhance production, improve market accessibility and increase income for farmers.
“In essence, the appointment, which is wrongly misunderstood by disgruntled individuals, bad losers and opposition, reinforces my determination to creating a thriving local economy based on the strength and potentials of Igbo-Etiti’s agricultural landscape.”
Odo also stated that the decision was well thought out and aimed at enhancing productivity and job creation. And also to uplift farmers and communities for both short-term and long-term development goals.
The Chairman, therefore, urged the public to disregard any online or offline comment aimed at discrediting his visionary efforts. He stated his commitment to reposition and set Igbo-Etiti Council Area on the path of massive food production and sustainable development.
DAILY TRUST reports that a financial expert, Kalu Aja, has commended the Chairman for the appointment.
According to Aja, garden eggs has 50 per cent Return on Investment, which many investments could not offer.
Aja aired his views on the appointment through his X handle.
He said “Garden egg is an economically important crop in the South-East. And it is used as a substitute for kola nut.
”Garden egg is probably the third most consumed fruity vegetable in Nigeria and Ghana, after pepper and tomatoes.
“The profitability of garden egg farming is very high with more than 50 per cent return on investment,” Aja said.
source: NAN
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