Abia First Lady, Priscilla Otti on Thursday in Umuahia, flagged off the distribution of fertilizer to women farmers in the state.
Speaking on the occasion, Mrs. Otti said the occasion was “far more than a ceremonial gathering”, but “a moment of recognition, gratitude, and renewed commitment to the women whose labour sustains our homes, nourishes our communities, and strengthens the economy of our state”.
This programme she said, “is not merely about the distribution of fertilizer, but a clear statement that the women who rise before dawn, till the soil, plant with faith, and harvest with perseverance must never be overlooked in the development priorities of government”.
With the right support, she said, including modern agricultural practices, and strategic investment, “Abia State has the capacity not only to feed itself, but also to become a leading hub of agricultural productivity and food security in Nigeria.”
Recounting the realities women face, including “rising costs, limited access to resources, unpredictable weather conditions, and the countless burdens carried by women in both the home and the farm”, she said, “despite these challenges, you continue to plant, to nurture, and to provide. That strength is extraordinary. That resilience is inspiring”.
She commended the state governor, Alex Otti over his unwavering support and people-centred leadership that made this initiative possible”, pointing out, “his administration believes that governance must be practical, inclusive, and impactful, reaching not only urban centres, but also the rural communities where food is cultivated and livelihoods are built”.
Her office, she assured, “remains committed to advancing the welfare and economic empowerment of women farmers across Abia State. We will continue to support initiatives that strengthen cooperatives, expand access to agricultural knowledge and extension services, and improve market linkages”.
This intervention, she also assured, is not a one-time gesture, but part of a continuing promise to keep creating opportunities until the women who feed this state can also prosper from their labour.
She encouraged the women to see agriculture differently, not as a symbol of hardship, but “a sector of opportunity, innovation, technology, enterprise, and wealth creation”, as there is dignity in agriculture, and a future in it.
Earlier, the Senior Special Assistant to the state governor on Agriculture, Prince Chris Enweremadu, the Commissoner for Agriculture, Ngozi Felix, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Maureen Ahukwa, a representative of rural women and wife of the 1st Deputy chairman of the Council of Traditional Rulers, Ugoeze Peace Ukogo and the state Labour Party Woman Leader, Elizabeth Kalu appreciated Gov. Alex Otti and the wife over the gesture which they said will uplift the lives of Abia rural women farmers.
In her speech, a representative of the beneficiaries, Madam Nnanna Mary John thanked Mrs. Otti for the fertilizers and assured they will put the input into good use.
