The Abia State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, FCIB, has called on young people across the state to take advantage of the government’s ongoing agricultural empowerment programme by embracing farming as a sustainable means of livelihood rather than engaging in criminal activities.

Speaking during the distribution of farm inputs to beneficiaries, Dr. Agbaeze said the administration of Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti is committed to transforming agriculture into a major driver of economic growth, food security, and youth employment in Abia State.

He noted that the increasing involvement of some youths in internet fraud and other criminal activities could be significantly reduced if more young people channel their energy into productive ventures such as agriculture.

According to the Commissioner, the state’s farmers empowerment programme has already captured more than 17,000 genuine farmers across the 17 Local Government Areas of Abia State, with plans to reach many more beneficiaries in the coming months.

“We have approximately five more tranches of agricultural inputs that will be distributed after this phase. Therefore, those who do not receive inputs today should remain hopeful, as they stand a greater chance of benefiting in subsequent batches. There is no need for panic or stampede,” he said.

Dr. Agbaeze explained that only properly verified and authenticated farmers captured in the state’s agricultural database would benefit from the programme. He stressed that the measure was introduced to eliminate the activities of ghost or portfolio farmers and ensure that government resources reach genuine farmers.

He disclosed that all farm inputs, including over 100 tonnes of fertilizer, have been fully paid for by the Abia State Government and are being distributed free of charge to beneficiaries. He further revealed that the government also provided free transportation for farmers to and from the distribution centres.

The Commissioner stated that beneficiaries would receive continuous support through training programmes and agricultural extension services provided by the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with experts from the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) and the Abia State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP).

He explained that the initiative is designed to promote modern farming techniques, increase agricultural productivity, improve environmental sustainability, and enhance the living standards of farmers across the state.

“Our goal is to help our farmers move beyond subsistence farming to commercial agriculture. We want them to expand their production, increase their income, and become major contributors to the state’s economy and Nigeria’s food security,” he said.

Dr. Agbaeze added that increased agricultural production would not only create employment opportunities for thousands of youths but would also reduce crime, improve food availability, stabilize food prices, and strengthen the state’s economy.

He expressed confidence that with sustained government support, Abia farmers would soon produce enough food not only for the state but also for other parts of Nigeria and eventually for export.

The Commissioner commended Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti for his unwavering commitment to the agricultural sector, describing the farmers empowerment programme as a clear demonstration of the administration’s determination to improve food production, create jobs, and enhance the welfare of the people of Abia State.

A new chapter in Nigeria’s beverage industry was unveiled on Sunday as CAADES Group signed a landmark trade partnership and distribution agreement with British entrepreneurs Mike and Garry Robinson to introduce Ikoyi Chapmans to the Nigerian market and expand its reach across Africa.

The agreement, described as more than a commercial venture, represents the culmination of a friendship spanning decades and highlights the growing economic and cultural ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Lagos, the Chairman of CAADES Group, Hon. Chima Desmond Anyaso, reflected on the remarkable journey that inspired the partnership.

According to him, more than four decades ago, Mike and Garry Robinson left Nigeria after spending part of their childhood in the country. Although they relocated to the United Kingdom, they carried with them treasured memories of Nigeria, including their love for Chapman, the iconic non-alcoholic cocktail that became a symbol of friendship, celebration, and unforgettable moments during their formative years.

Hon. Anyaso noted that after more than 40 years, the Robinson brothers returned to Nigeria, not only to reconnect with the country that shaped part of their lives but also to invest in its future through a strategic business partnership.

He explained that the newly signed agreement will see Ikoyi Chapmans introduced into the Nigerian market, with plans for expansion into other African countries, creating new opportunities for trade, investment, and employment.

Describing the occasion as historic, Anyaso said the event symbolized far more than the launch of a beverage brand.

According to him, the partnership represents the renewal of enduring friendships, the strengthening of family ties, and the power of relationships built on trust, mutual respect, and shared values. He added that such relationships have the capacity to inspire innovation, create economic opportunities, and foster sustainable development across borders.

The CAADES Group Chairman disclosed that what began years ago as a casual meeting with Mike and Garry Robinson gradually evolved into a lifelong friendship and has now matured into a strategic business alliance with the potential to strengthen commercial relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

As part of the ceremony, Hon. Anyaso presented the Robinson brothers with symbolic gifts that reflected Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. The presentations included the Nigerian Coat of Arms, traditional Igbo Isi Agu attire, customized crested hand fans bearing their names, traditional beads, and the iconic red cap. He explained that the gifts were intended to honour the brothers’ enduring connection with Nigeria and celebrate a partnership founded on friendship, trust, and shared aspirations.

Hon. Anyaso also expressed appreciation to the partnership’s strategic collaborator, Dr. Efosa Ogbeide, alongside other individuals whose support and commitment helped bring the vision to fruition.

He expressed confidence that the partnership would contribute significantly to the growth of Nigeria’s beverage industry while opening new investment opportunities across Africa. He further stated that the initiative is expected to stimulate innovation, strengthen regional trade, and deepen commercial collaboration between African and international partners.

The launch of Ikoyi Chapmans marks not only the introduction of a beverage brand but also the beginning of a broader vision that celebrates history, preserves lifelong friendships, connects cultures, and creates a lasting legacy for future generations.

Industry observers believe the partnership underscores Nigeria’s growing attractiveness as a destination for international investment while demonstrating how personal relationships can evolve into ventures that promote economic development and cross-cultural cooperation.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Abia State House of Assembly, Ohafia South Constituency, Hon. Ezera Queen Chisom, has announced a free medical outreach aimed at improving access to healthcare services for residents across Ohafia communities.

In a statement released ahead of the programme, Hon. Chisom emphasized the importance of good health as the foundation for personal and national development, noting that a healthy population is essential for economic growth and social progress.

Quoting the popular adage, “Once there is health, there is hope. For a healthy nation is a wealthy nation,” she stated that good health enables individuals to learn, work, earn a living, build businesses, raise families, and pursue their aspirations, while poor health can diminish even the greatest financial resources.

She explained that the medical outreach forms part of her commitment to promoting the well-being of the people of Ohafia South Constituency through practical interventions that directly impact their lives.

Hon. Chisom called on residents from all wards and communities in Ohafia to take advantage of the free healthcare programme, which is scheduled to hold on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the Elu Ohafia Village Square, beginning at 10:00 am

The ADC House of Assembly hopeful reiterated her campaign motto, “Action Beats Words,” describing the initiative as a demonstration of her resolve to prioritize the welfare of the people through meaningful service and community-focused programmes.