By Ijeoma Agbafo
Farmers in Ebonyi State have called on the government to ensure that agricultural inputs, including fertilisers, agrochemicals, improved seedlings and processing equipment, are distributed directly to genuine farmers to boost food production.
The farmers appealed on Wednesday, saying preparations for the 2026 farming season were already underway across farming communities. They, however, identified the high cost of labour and limited access to government support as major challenges affecting agricultural production.
A rice farmer from Ndiagu Amagu in Ikwo Local Government Area, Mr Johnson Nwafor, alleged that agricultural inputs meant for farmers were often diverted by “political farmers”, depriving genuine rural farmers of the support. He urged the government to establish community-based committees to ensure transparent distribution of farm inputs.
Also speaking, Mr Chidiebere Nwali from Ishielu Local Government Area called for increased government investment in agriculture, while Mr Uche Nwoba from Ikwo urged the provision of modern farming equipment to improve productivity. Nwoba noted that Ikwo remained the largest rice-producing area in the state and required greater support to maximise output.
The farmers maintained that providing timely support to genuine farmers would enhance food security, create employment and increase agricultural productivity. A basin of rice currently sells for between ₦24,000 and ₦26,000 in Abakaliki.
