The Imo House of Assembly has urged Governor Hope Uzodimma to collaborate with the state’s 27 local government areas (LGAs) to prioritise agriculture for food security and economic growth.

The lawmakers urged Mr Uzodimma to direct the state Ministries of Agriculture and Local Government Affairs to work in synergy toward achieving the programme.

The House made the call in a motion presented by Kennedy Ibeh, representing the Obowo State Constituency, during Tuesday’s plenary session.

Mr Ibeh said an increase in production would lead to the availability of food, reduced cost of living, improved living standards, and enhanced state economy.

The lawmaker said the 27 LGAs are endowed with significant potential for agricultural production but have remained largely unproductive over the years.

He further said that focusing on specific crop production in each LGA could create the needed comparative advantages and enhanced economic competitiveness among the councils.

The lawmaker also called on each LGA “to identify and focus on specific crop production, leveraging its comparative advantage”.

He further advised that the Ministries of Agriculture, Lands and Local Government should provide the necessary support and training to the councils to successfully implement the initiative.

Supporting the motion, Uche Agabige, representing Orsu State Constituency, said providing enough food for the country had been challenging.

Mr Agabige, therefore, called for the immediate conversion of arable lands in the state for agricultural production.

Also, Innocent Ikpamezie, representing the Mbaitoli State Constituency, said the motion was timely while canvassing for more investments in agriculture.

In a contribution, Bennet Ebonine, representing Njaba State Constituency, said the security of farmers should also be prioritised. He advocated for the effective implementation of the initiative.

The speaker, Chike Olemgbe, after listening to contributions to the motion, ruled in its favour.

Mr Olemgbe also directed the clerk, Chinelo Emeghara, to convey the resolutions to the governor and the relevant ministries.

(NAN)