Riding on the success recorded from the pilot programme of the Abia Rice Intensive Cultivation and Expansion (ARICE) programme, the state Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, said the programme will soon be rolled out to 8,500 identified locations across the state.

The commissioner, who revealed this while giving update on the programme, said the success of pilot phase, armarked a significant step towds establishing Abia as a major Rice-producing state.

He said the proof-of-concept project was conducted on 150 hectares of land in Owerrinta, IsialaNgwa South Local Council, while harvesting is currently underway, and that mechanised farming techniques will be employed to maximise efficiency and productivity.

“Today, we celebrate a major milestone in our agricultural development journey. The ARICE programme’s pilot phase has 9 farmers.”

He commended the tireless efforts of all stakeholders and look forward to the programme’s continued success, expressing optimism that “as we scale up this initiative, we are confident that it will not only boost rice production but also create economic opportunities for our citizens.”

Agbaeze also acknowledged Governor Otti’sunwavering support and vision for agricultural development in Abia State., describing his leadership style as pivotal to the success of the ARICE programme.”