Anambra State House of Assembly at plenary on Thursday January 29th 2026,
urged Governor Chukwuma Soludo to direct relevant MDA’s of government, to commence the establishment of agricultural innovation and development centers across the three senatorial zones.
The House made the call through a motion sponsored by the Deputy Speaker,
Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Okoye.
In his submission, Okoye who is the lawmaker representing Awka South two Constituency, maintained that agriculture remains the backbone of Anambra State’s economy and a vital source of livelihood for the majority of its citizens.
“Modern technologies such as precision farming, hydroponics, greenhouse cultivation, drone applications, and ICT-driven solutions are essential to improving yields, building resilience against climate change, and attracting the younger generation into agriculture;
“Over 40% of farm produce such as rice, cassava, yam, vegetables, palm produce, and fruits are lost annually due to inadequate storage, processing, and packaging facilities, thereby reducing farmers’ income while farmers continue to face low productivity, post-harvest losses, and limited access to modern technologies thereby limiting the State’s internally generated revenue (IGR);
“The establishment of at least one Smart Farming and Agri-Tech Demonstration Centre in each of the three senatorial zones of the State to train farmers and youths on modern farming techniques, encourage agri-tech entrepreneurship, and promote climate-smart agriculture, which shall also be provided in the State budget, will go a long way in improving the agric sector of the State.
“Establishing Agricultural Produce, Processing and Packaging Hubs alongside Smart Farming and Agri-Tech Demonstration Centres in the three senatorial zones will ensure regional inclusiveness, reduce unemployment, create new value chains, and position Anambra as a hub for agricultural innovation in Nigeria”. Rt. Hon. Okoye noted.
Supporting the motion, Minority Leader of the House, Hon. Johnbosco Akaegbobi (Nnewi South two). Hon. Chimezie Ikwunne (Awka North), Majority Leader Hon. Ikenna Ofodeme (Ekwusigo) in their separate submissions said agriculture is big business and can eradicate hunger and unemployment.
Anambra Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze who presided plenary commended Okoye for sponsoring the motion.
The Speaker maintained that as population increases, innovation and
agricultural upgrading is important.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that the House adjurned and to reconvene on Tuesday 3rd February 2026.
