The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has flagged off the 2026 farming season with the distribution of agricultural inputs and equipment to farmers across the 18 local government areas of the state.
The event, held at the Agricultural Hub on Oko-Ogba Road in Benin City, marked the commencement of the second phase of the administration’s “Back to Farm” initiative. It attracted farmers and agricultural stakeholders from across the state, who showcased a variety of farm produce, highlighting Edo’s vast agricultural potential.
Representing the governor at the event, the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, Esq., said the administration remains committed to strengthening agriculture to boost food production and ensure food security.
He reiterated that the Okpebholo-led government would continue to support farmers through increased funding and the implementation of strategic agricultural programmes across the state.
According to him, agriculture remains a key pillar of the administration’s SHINE agenda, with a strong focus on food production and security.
“It is encouraging to see the level of participation and commitment from our farmers. Agriculture remains one of the oldest and most sustainable professions, as food is essential for human survival,” he said.
Ikhilor noted that the governor, upon assuming office on November 12, 2024, demonstrated his commitment to agriculture by allocating a significant portion of the state budget to the sector.
He added that Governor Okpebholo also made history as the first governor in over 20 years to visit the Iguoriakhi Farm Settlement, where he engaged directly with farmers.
“We must ensure that support reaches genuine farmers and not political beneficiaries.
The governor is personally interested in ensuring transparency in the distribution of farm inputs,” he said.
He assured farmers of continued government support, including access to tractors, farm implements, and other resources needed to enhance productivity.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Jerry Uwangue, described the programme as a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to sustainable agricultural development.
He said the initiative aims to formally launch the 2026 farming season while encouraging farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices, including the use of improved seedlings, fertilizers, agrochemicals, and mechanized equipment.
A guest lecturer, Sunny Eronseyi, delivered a lecture titled “Strengthening Agricultural Systems for Food Security in Edo State,” where he highlighted strategies to improve productivity and sustainability in the sector.
Some beneficiaries, including Uwensuyi Monday, Godfrey Omoruyi, and Henry Ebole, commended the state government for the intervention and appealed for continued support to ensure a successful planting season.
Items distributed to farmers at the event included fertilizers, safety gear, knapsack sprayers, agrochemicals, fish processing kits, gas cylinders, farm boots, and other agricultural implements.