As part of effort to consolidate on his administration’s policy on developing the agricultural sector, Cross River State governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, weekend visited the Songhai Farms located in Itigidi, Abi Local Government Council.
The visit was part of the governor’s projects inspection in the Central and Northern Senatorial Zones of the State.
The Governor visited Songhai Farms in Itigidi (Abi LGA) and the starch-making plant in Ochon (Obubra LGA), where he was provided with firsthand insights into the situation and challenges of these initiatives, which are capable of strengthening the state’s agricultural sector and driving industrialization.
At Songhai Farms, Governor Otu expressed regret over the near-moribund state of the facilities and demanded a reactivation plan that will bring the facility to full-scale production and operation.
He also announced the imminent opening of the Nge Farms beach within the coming week, alongside plans to finalize a winning bid for its further development.
At the starch-making plant in Ochon, the Governor observed that while the facility is designed to operate three production lines, only one production line has been put in place.
He emphasized the need to attract investors and strategic partners for effective reactivation that will ensure the plant operates at full scale.
The facility is expected to play a vital role in Cross River’s industrialization efforts by producing high-quality starch and glucose syrup, particularly for the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Moreover, as part of a broader agricultural investment strategy, Governor Otu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to oil palm development. He noted that the government is actively supporting smallholder farmers in establishing palm plantations, a move aimed at fostering economic resilience at the grassroots level. This initiative aligns with the state’s long-term sustainability goals, which focus on boosting local production and enhancing Cross River’s standing in Nigeria’s agricultural value chain.
Speaking on the starch-making plant, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Ebokpo, provided additional insights, stating that prospective project partners are showing interest in investing in the plant.
He highlighted the plant’s capacity to manufacture high-quality glucose syrup and starch for various industrial applications. While only one production line is currently installed, discussions are ongoing with prospective partners to ensure reactivation and expand production capacity.
Governor Otu’s visit underscores his administration’s unwavering commitment to transforming Cross River’s agricultural sector through strategic investments, industrial expansion, and sustainable development initiatives. By leveraging public-private partnerships and fostering innovation, the government aims to position agriculture as a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and infrastructure development.
Nsa Gill
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
