By John Joseph
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In a bold move to address the pressing issue of food insecurity, the Edo State House of Assembly has increased the state’s 2025 budget from N605 billion to N676 billion. This significant boost, announced by Speaker Blessing Agbebaku, is specifically designed to combat food insecurity and create food sufficiency in Edo State.
The initial budget proposal of N605 billion, presented by Governor Monday Okpebholo on December 10, 2024, has been increased by over N71 billion. Agbebaku explained that the additional funds will be allocated to the agricultural sector, which was initially allocated N4.5 billion by the governor.
The decision to increase the budget comes as Nigeria faces an acute shortfall in food production, leading to skyrocketing prices and increased hardship among citizens. The Edo State government recognizes the urgent need to address this issue and has committed to partnering with the governor to ensure the state takes the lead in agricultural revolution and solving the current food challenges.
The approved budget will ensure infrastructure development in all constituencies in Edo State. The allocation of N70 billion to the agricultural sector is a significant increase, demonstrating the government’s commitment to food security and agricultural revolution.
Governor Okpebholo welcomed the increased budget, stating that it aligns with his administration’s commitment to addressing food insecurity and making Edo State sufficient in food production. He emphasized that the budget is designed to revive the state’s economy, deliver dividends of democracy, and focus on agricultural revolution, food production, and infrastructural development.
With the significant allocation to the agricultural sector, Edo State is expected to achieve food sufficiency and begin exporting agricultural produce to neighboring states in Nigeria. The proposed mechanized farming schedule, set to kick-start in early 2025, will further boost the state’s agricultural sector.
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