Abia Urged to Revive Dormant Farmlands Amid Food Security Emergencies
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
ABIA, Nigeria – Pressure mounts on the Abia State Government to unlock abandoned agricultural assets as Nigeria battles rising food insecurity.
The Chairman of the Anambra–Imo River Basin Development Authority (AIRBDA), Senator Emmanuel Anosike, made the call on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to Governor Alex Otti in Nvosi, Isialangwa South.
Anosike says over 1,300 hectares once used for rice, cassava and aquaculture across the South-East now lie largely idle, blaming weakened state–federal collaboration.
“With the federal declaration of a food security emergency, revitalising these assets is no longer optional,” he says, pledging AIRBDA’s readiness to work with Abia and the South-East Development Commission.
He describes Abia as strategically vital, noting that agriculture sits at the heart of the Authority’s mandate.
Governor Otti responds with a firm commitment to partnership.
“Abia is open for business and focused on results,” he says, adding that improved electricity supply has already stimulated economic activity in Aba and Umuahia.
Otti approves the creation of a joint technical committee, directing commissioners for Agriculture, Lands and Environment, alongside the Abia Investment Agency, to fast-track implementation.
He urges AIRBDA to prioritise achievable projects with measurable impact, stressing that agricultural revival must translate into jobs, income and food availability.
About the Author
Oluwafunbi Bello 
Korede Abdullah 
Koko Maxwella 