Benin City, Edo State — The Edo State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is undergoing a notable shift in direction under the visionary leadership of Jerry Uwangue, as the state intensifies efforts to boost food production and reposition farming as a key economic driver.
In a statement issued by the ministry, since taking the oath of office as Commissioner, Jerry Uwangue has focused on policies aimed at improving agricultural productivity, strengthening rural livelihoods, and attracting young people into agribusiness.
“His approach marks a departure from traditional subsistence farming models toward a more structured, market-oriented system”.
Continuing, the ministry of Agriculture said, “one of the administration’s central initiatives is a renewed push for large-scale participation in agriculture, often framed around a “back-to-farm” campaign.
“The programme encourages residents—particularly youths—to take advantage of emerging opportunities across the agricultural value chain, from crop production to processing and distribution”.
According to officials within the ministry, “the strategy is already influencing increased interest in farming cooperatives and small-scale agribusiness ventures”.
They said the government has also begun deploying mechanised equipment and opening up more farmland to support expansion efforts.
The statement said Jerry Uwangue has repeatedly stressed the importance of food security, noting that rising food costs and supply challenges require urgent, coordinated action. His policies have therefore prioritised access to inputs, infrastructure development, and partnerships with private investors.
In addition, the ministry is working with training institutions to equip young people with modern agricultural skills, a move designed to address unemployment while ensuring long-term sustainability in the sector.
Observers say the success of the reforms will depend on consistent implementation and the ability to scale programmes beyond pilot phases. However, early indicators suggest that Edo State’s agriculture sector is gaining renewed attention as a viable pathway for economic growth.
The coming months are expected to test whether these initiatives can translate into measurable increases in food production and job creation across the state.
