The Chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area in Enugu State, Dr. Eric Odo, recently addressed reports surrounding his strategic appointment of Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) dedicated to advancing agricultural development in the region.
Speaking to journalists in Enugu on Wednesday, Dr. Odo clarified the intent behind these new roles, which focus on specific crop areas such as garden egg, yam, and pepper. These appointments, he explained, are part of a targeted initiative aimed at significantly increasing the production of these crops to meet local demands and explore export opportunities.
Dr. Odo highlighted that Igbo-Etiti LGA has a strong tradition and comparative advantage in cultivating these crops. Therefore, he appointed specialists with the skills and experience necessary to support and advance agricultural practices in these areas. By doing so, he aims to capitalize on the region’s strengths in crop production, allowing local farmers to maximize output and profitability.
“Their appointments are intended to ensure that our farmers receive the resources, support, and expertise needed to enhance crop yield, expand market access, and improve income for farmers,” Dr. Odo stated. He further clarified that his decision to appoint SSAs for these specific crops has been misinterpreted by some, especially by individuals or groups opposed to his administration. However, Dr. Odo emphasized that this move is a cornerstone of his vision to build a robust local economy by harnessing Igbo-Etiti’s agricultural potential.
He also underscored that the initiative is designed not only to increase productivity but also to create jobs, uplift local communities, and lay a foundation for both immediate and long-term economic growth. Dr. Odo called on the public to disregard any criticisms aimed at undermining these efforts, as he remains committed to steering Igbo-Etiti toward large-scale food production and sustainable development.
Adding his support for this initiative, financial expert Mr. Kalu Aja commended the chairman’s decision. On his social media platform X, Aja noted the high return on investment (ROI) associated with crops like garden egg, which, he said, yields an impressive ROI of over 50 percent—a figure many other investments struggle to reach. According to Aja, garden egg is a particularly valuable crop within the South-East, even serving as a substitute for kola in cultural settings.
“Garden egg is likely the third most consumed fruit-vegetable in Nigeria and Ghana after pepper and tomatoes,” Aja explained, adding that its profitability makes it an attractive crop for investment and cultivation.
Through these strategic appointments, Dr. Odo is not only strengthening the agricultural sector within Igbo-Etiti but is also laying the groundwork for long-term economic stability by empowering local farmers and positioning the region to become a significant player in Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.
