Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government Area, Enugu State, Hon. John Ogbodo, is spearheading a project to establish a 200-hectare farm estate in the Amurri community, aimed at addressing local security challenges and promoting food security.
The initiative, which is part of the Enugu State government’s plan to create smart farms across its local government areas, also seeks to provide employment opportunities for the youth.
During a recent inspection of one of the ongoing smart farm projects in Amurri, Ogbodo emphasized that the farm estate will not only contribute to solving the issue of insecurity caused by the presence of Fulani herdsmen but will also help improve local productivity.
The chairman explained that the farm would be situated in an area currently inhabited by the herders.
“We are trying to use that place to clear them (Fulani herdsmen) from that place.
“If you go there, you will see their huts and thatched houses everywhere,” he said.
Ogbodo added that 13 additional farm estates are under development across the 14 wards in the local government area, each designed to benefit the specific community where it is located.
He noted that the Amurri community had personally invited him to view the site and confirm the area they wished to designate for the farm.
The community leaders, including the traditional ruler of Umuigbo, have all agreed on the location and importance of the project, according to the chairman.
The Nkanu West LGA chairman reassured residents that the local government would provide compensation for any crops or property that might be affected during the land clearance process for the farm.
He also addressed concerns regarding potential land disputes, stating that the project is intended to serve the wider community and accusing anyone objecting to it of attempting to claim land improperly.
“Anyone protesting against the Amurri community smart farm in its current location is a land grabber,” he stated.
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