Abia Commissioner endorses Isuikwuato’s agricultural revolution, vows to expand model across the state. Read full report and testimonies.
In a landmark event that signals a new era for grassroots agriculture in Abia State, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, has applauded the Isuikwuato Consultative Forum (ICF) for launching the second edition of the Isuikwuato Agricultural Revolution Programme (ISAREF).
Speaking during the official flag-off of the 2025 planting season held at the Isuikwuato Development Union (IDU) national headquarters in Mbalano on May 10, 2025, Dr. Agbaeze described the initiative as “a model worthy of replication across all communities in Abia.”
“This is more than just about planting crops — it is about planting hope, prosperity, and a brighter future for our people,” the Commissioner stated.
He noted that he was also present during the inaugural edition a year ago and is thrilled by the results recorded so far. “It is a rare privilege to return and witness the growth of a pilot project into a movement,” he said.
Dr. Agbaeze disclosed that the state government, through his ministry, is not only committed to supplying high-yielding seeds and farm inputs, but is also prioritizing the security of farmlands and protection of farmers. “We are aware of the sabotage that threatens our agriculture sector. But this government is proactive. We are securing our farms,” he declared.
The Commissioner also announced the launch of a statewide farmer enumeration programme aimed at identifying real farmers and eliminating “portfolio farmers” from the system. “You are either a crop farmer or a livestock farmer. No more portfolio farmers in Abia State,” he stressed, urging all farmers to get registered.
The event was chaired by Hon. Chief Charles Omesie Ojukwu, former elected Chairman of Isuikwuato LGA, who commended ICF for taking bold steps to unlock the agricultural potential of Isuikwuato.
He praised the efforts of Sir Ray Nkemdirim (Ugwumba), leader of the Forum; Engr. Iyke Ezeugo, Establishment Coordinator; Dr. Chidi Esike, Chairman of the ICF Agricultural Action Group; and Chief Charles Maduagwu, Chairman of the iSAREF 2025 Flag-off Committee.
“This programme offers us an opportunity to share knowledge, strengthen partnerships and support one another for the collective good of our communities,” Ojukwu noted.
Leader of the Forum, Chief Ray Nkemdirim, said the ICF is an association of Isuikwuato elites who have come together to drive development through agriculture, infrastructure, education, security, and skills acquisition.
“This is the second edition of our agricultural revolution programme. Last year, we started this journey and today we are here to take stock, assess our impact and prepare for the new planting season,” Nkemdirim said.
He emphasized that the ICF initiative is not a political movement but a developmental one focused on self-empowerment, food security, and sustainability.
Farmers who participated in last year’s programme expressed joy and shared testimonies about how the support changed their farming output. Many thanked the ICF and the state government for the life-changing intervention and pledged to make better use of the seeds and inputs they will receive this year.
Crops and Roots
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