Chinazaekpere Chinwendu, Reporter
Umuahia, Abia State| March 25, 2027 —
The member representing Umuahia North (Ohuhu) State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon Barr. Anderson Kelechi Akaliro, has commended the Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Chioma Otti, for his far-reaching agricultural reform initiative, stating that the proposed oil palm investment will significantly curb rural-urban migration while creating sustainable employment opportunities for the people.
Akaliro made this assertion while reacting to the state government’s planned partnership with Presco PLC to develop a large-scale oil palm plantation and processing hub across strategic locations in Abia State, including the historic Ulonna Farm Settlement in Umuahia North Local Government Area.
He described the initiative as a bold and strategic intervention aimed at revitalizing the agricultural sector and repositioning Abia as a major agro-industrial hub in Nigeria. According to him, the scale of the investment, estimated at about 200 million dollars and spanning approximately 14,000 hectares, underscores the seriousness of the Otti-led administration in driving economic transformation through agriculture.
Speaking on the importance of Ulonna Farm Settlement, Akaliro noted that the area holds immense historical and economic value, having served as a key agricultural base in the past. He emphasized that its inclusion in the proposed project signals a deliberate effort to revive legacy assets and integrate them into modern agricultural development frameworks.
“The revival of Ulonna Farm Settlement is both symbolic and strategic. It reflects a conscious decision to harness our rich agricultural heritage while adapting to contemporary demands. This project will breathe new life into the area and position it as a hub of productivity and innovation,” Akaliro stated.
The lawmaker further highlighted other proposed locations for the plantation project, including Ozuitem in Bende Local Government Area and Abam in Arochukwu Local Government Area, noting that the spread of the investment across multiple zones would ensure balanced development and equitable distribution of economic benefits.
Akaliro stressed that beyond its economic implications, the initiative carries significant social benefits, particularly in addressing unemployment and the persistent migration of young people from rural communities to urban centers in search of livelihoods.
“This reform has the capacity to engage thousands of our youths in meaningful ventures across the agricultural value chain, from cultivation to processing and logistics. By creating opportunities within our communities, we will drastically reduce the need for rural-urban migration and strengthen local economies,” he said.
He added that the project is expected to generate over 5,000 direct and indirect jobs, stimulate ancillary industries, and attract further investments into the state, thereby contributing to increased internally generated revenue and overall economic stability.
Drawing a historical parallel, Akaliro noted that the initiative mirrors the agricultural vision of former Eastern Region Premier, Michael Okpara, whose farm settlement programme transformed the region into a leading agricultural powerhouse.
“This is a commendable attempt to revive the visionary policies of Dr Michael Okpara, whose agricultural revolution laid the foundation for economic self-reliance in the Eastern Region. With the right execution, this initiative can surpass past achievements and redefine Abia’s economic trajectory,” he added.
Hon Anderson Akaliro reaffirmed his support for the Otti administration’s development agenda, pledging legislative backing for policies and programmes that promote agricultural growth and economic expansion. He also called on host communities and relevant stakeholders to cooperate with the government and investors to ensure the seamless implementation of the project.
He expressed optimism that the successful execution of the initiative would not only transform Ulonna Farm Settlement and other benefiting areas but also position Abia State as a leading destination for agro-industrial investment in Nigeria.
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