By: Lanre Shodimu
As part of efforts to strengthen food security, improve rural livelihoods and reposition agriculture as a key driver of economic growth, the Cross River State Government has launched its 2026 Wet Season Farming Programme with the distribution of improved seed yam inputs and other agricultural support materials to farmers across the state.
The State Government has officially commenced its 2026 Wet Season Farming Programme with the distribution of improved seed yam inputs to farmers across the state, in a renewed push to boost food production, enhance rural livelihoods and strengthen agricultural productivity.
Governor Bassey Otu flagged off the programme on Wednesday in Calabar, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sustainable agriculture, food security and economic development.
The exercise saw the distribution of improved seed yams and other agricultural inputs to farmers drawn from the 18 local government areas of the state, including cooperatives, women groups, youths and agricultural extension workers.
Representing the governor at the event, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation, Johnson Ebokpo Jr., said the early rollout of the programme was designed to ensure farmers receive critical inputs ahead of the planting season.
According to him, the intervention forms part of the administration’s broader vision of transforming Cross River into a major agricultural hub in the South-South region and across Nigeria.
“We are not just talking about food security; we are taking deliberate and practical steps to make it a reality. This distribution exercise is part of our broader vision to transform Cross River into the food basket of the South-South and Nigeria at large,” he said.
Ebokpo noted that agriculture remains central to the state’s economic agenda, stressing that the sector continues to serve as the primary source of livelihood for thousands of households across Cross River.
“Agriculture remains the backbone of our economy and the primary source of livelihood for thousands of households across the state. That is why this administration continues to invest in programmes that directly support farmers and strengthen rural communities,” he added.
Governor Otu, in remarks delivered through the commissioner, described the initiative as a key component of his administration’s agricultural transformation drive aimed at improving productivity and supporting smallholder farmers.
He highlighted the importance of improved seed yam technology in reducing production costs and increasing yields, noting that seed yam remains one of the most expensive inputs in yam cultivation.
“Seed yam accounts for between 25 and 60 per cent of total production costs. Our goal is to position Cross River as a major player in yam production, processing and seed yam commercialisation in Nigeria,” the governor stated.
The governor further disclosed that the minisett technology introduced through collaboration with International Institute of Tropical Agriculture would help farmers achieve higher yields, improve disease management and increase income generation.
He explained that the initiative also includes capacity-building programmes for farmers and extension agents on rapid seed yam production, improved agronomic practices and disease control techniques.
The National Coordinator of the IFAD-assisted LIFE-ND Programme, Sam Abiodun, commended the state government for prioritising agriculture and rural development.
He pledged continued partnership and support towards improving agricultural productivity and creating economic opportunities for rural communities.
Beneficiaries of the programme expressed appreciation to the state government, describing the intervention as timely amid rising production costs and limited access to quality planting materials.
A farmer from Bekwarra Local Government Area, Mrs. Grace Ene, said the support would enable many farmers to return fully to cultivation this season.
“This support has given us hope again. Many farmers could not afford quality seed yams this season, but the government has stepped in to help us produce more food,” she said.
Another beneficiary, Mr. Emmanuel Bassey from Yakurr, said the improved seed yams and technical training received under the programme would significantly improve harvests this year.
Mrs. Florence Odama from Obubra also lauded the initiative, saying the intervention would help farmers expand production and support household food needs.
With the commencement of the 2026 wet season farming activities, the Cross River State Government said it is targeting increased food production, improved farmer incomes and stronger rural economies across the state.
