ARICE Pilot Phase Completed as Abia Government Unveils Bold Step Towards Becoming Nigeria’s Next Rice Production Hub

The Abia State Government (ABSG) has achieved a remarkable breakthrough in its agricultural transformation agenda as the Abia Rice Initiative for Community Empowerment (ARICE) successfully concluded its pilot phase. The program, which marks a significant step towards positioning Abia as a major rice-producing state, was executed on 150 hectares of fertile land in Owerrinta, Isialangwa South Local Government Area. Harvesting of the first yield is currently underway, signaling the dawn of a new era in Abia’s agricultural sector.

Speaking to newsmen in Umuahia, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze FCIB, disclosed that the ARICE program will soon be expanded beyond Owerrinta to cover several identified locations across the state, with a target of 8,500 hectares earmarked for large-scale rice cultivation. He further emphasized that mechanized farming techniques will be deployed to ensure maximum efficiency, increased productivity, and reduced drudgery for farmers.

In his words:

“Today, we celebrate a major milestone in our Agricultural development journey. The ARICE program’s pilot phase has demonstrated the vast potential of our land and the dedication of our farmers. As we scale up this initiative, we’re confident that it will not only boost rice production but also create economic opportunities for our citizens.

I will like to express my profound appreciation to His Excellency, Governor Alex Oti, for his unwavering support and vision for Agricultural development in Abia State. His leadership is pivotal to the success of this program.

I commend the tireless efforts of all stakeholders and look forward to the program’s continued success.”

The ARICE initiative is designed not only to increase local rice production but also to empower communities, create thousands of jobs, enhance food security, and reduce dependence on imported rice. With the successful completion of the pilot phase, Abia is now on course to becoming a major player in Nigeria’s agricultural map, while demonstrating that with visionary leadership, innovation, and commitment, food sufficiency is ac

hievable.