Chairman of the Enugu Local Government Area (LGA), Eric Odo,  has appointed two Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) to focus on key crops vital to the region’s economy and food security.

The appointees, Nwodo Everestus Ugonna and Ezeugwu Frederick Ogbonna, will concentrate on specific crops critical to Igbo Etiti LGA’s agricultural output.

Ugonna will serve as SSA on Garden Eggs and Pepper, while Ogbonna will focus on Yam and Pepper, reflecting the region’s reliance on these crops for local sustenance and economic growth. The chairman’s decision highlights a strategic push to improve farming practices, increase yields, and promote self-sufficiency in the area.

While the appointments have been welcomed by some as a forward-thinking initiative to bolster Enugu’s agricultural sector, others have raised concerns over their necessity, questioning the potential for power abuse.

Despite the differing opinions, the chairman’s office emphasized that the SSAs’ roles are narrowly tailored to provide expert advice and targeted interventions to boost crop production.

The crops identified for targeted development hold significant importance for the region:

Garden Eggs: A staple in local diets, requiring improved farming techniques for higher yields.

Pepper: A versatile crop with high demand for both local consumption and export opportunities.

Yam: A culturally and economically significant crop, vital to the agricultural identity of Igbo Etiti LGA.

By appointing specialized advisers, Chairman Odo aims to transform Enugu LGA into a hub of agricultural excellence. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance food security, support farmers, and stimulate economic growth through agriculture.

Supporters of the initiative believe that leveraging expert guidance will enable farmers to adopt better practices, mitigate challenges, and unlock the full potential of the region’s agricultural resources.