The Enugu State Government has announced plans to establish 340 greenhouse technology farms across the state’s 17 local government areas, aimed at boosting agricultural exports.
The state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-industrialisation, Dr Patrick Ubru, revealed this initiative on Thursday in Enugu.
According to Ubru, the Greenhouse Technology farm project is part of Governor Peter Mbah’s broader vision to revolutionise agriculture in the state.
He stated that the successful completion of the pilot phase over the past nine months had paved the way for the large-scale implementation of the initiative across all council areas.
Under the plan, 20 Greenhouse Technology farms will be established in each of the 17 council areas.
The primary focus will be the year-round cultivation of exotic vegetables and spices, which will be produced specifically for export.
The state intends to use the soon-to-be-completed cargo terminal at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu to facilitate air freight of these products to international markets.
Ubru highlighted that the controlled environment of the Greenhouse Technology farms will allow for multiple cropping cycles each year, with up to three or four harvests annually.
The improved seedlings of vegetables and spices are expected to yield higher quantities that meet global export standards.
In addition to the high yield potential, the Greenhouse Technology farms will be equipped with solar-powered cold box systems, ensuring that the harvested vegetables and spices remain fresh during transit to export destinations.
Each greenhouse farm is expected to create between four and six direct jobs.
The state government is also encouraging corporate organisations and private individuals to invest in greenhouse farming.
Ubru assured that the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-industrialisation would provide technical support to ensure the success of private ventures in the sector.
Governor Peter Mbah’s administration is fully committed to transforming agriculture into a thriving business sector, offering ample opportunities for investors and job seekers alike.
