Moved by the rising cost of rice in the market, Enugu State government and Ellah Lakes plc at the weekend distributed rice seeds to 1,200 farmers in Adani, Uzo-Uwani Local Council to enable them grow the product in large quantities.

The distribution of the 25kg capacity-free rice seeds (FARO 44)  to each of the benefiting farmers is to ensure that there is abundant food in the state for consumption and commercial purposes.

It is also aimed at meeting the state government’s target of producing about 600,000 to 1 million metric tonne of rice per year.

The distribution of the seeds, which held at the premises of the Enugu State Ministry of Agriculture was themed: “Ellah Lakes Plc and Adani SCPC Out-Growers Scheme.”

Speaking at the event, Governor Peter Mbah, represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Patrick Ubru, noted that the state government is desirous to ensure that adequate food is produced in the state and to make agriculture a big business, pointing out that the state government has been making huge investment to improve the sector.

Ubru said they are partnering Ellah Lakes Plc, who has been commissioned to ensure that Adarice Farm takes off in earnest and also to train farmers in modern farming techniques.

He said that nowadays farmers are proud people in the society who hold their heads high and encouraged others to key into farming for economic growth. “Farming is a distinguished business. Those who are into farming now walk with a swag.”

According to him, in addition to moving Adarice Farm forward for increased production, Ellah Lakes will equally train farmers on modern farming techniques, which in turn would culminate in increased productivity.

On his part, the Managing Director of Ellah Lakes Plc, Chuka Mordi, said they are in joint partnership with the state government to develop Adarice Farm and to train farmers on modern farming techniques for increased productivity.

The happy farmers, after the flag-off of the distribution, smiled home with bags of free rice seeds.