The Cross River State Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation Development, will officially launch the distribution of improved cowpea seeds (SAMPEA 20-T) to farmers across the state on Wednesday, September 10, 2025.
The event is set to take place at the Calabar Municipal Council at 10 a.m. and is being conducted in collaboration with the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) at Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru, Zaria.
In a release signed by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo, the initiative aligns with the agricultural empowerment drive of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu.
The SAMPEA 20-T cowpea variety, he explained, is characterized by high yields, early maturity, resistance to pests and diseases, and adaptability to the state's soil ecology. This program aims to enhance nutrition, promote homestead farming, increase farmers’ productivity, and improve livelihoods throughout the state.
Stakeholders, development partners, commodity associations, members of the media, and the public are invited to attend the flag-off ceremony, marking a significant step in the government’s efforts to transform the agricultural sector.
Blessing Enagu
