The wife of the Abia State Governor, Priscilla Otti, has officially flagged off the distribution of fertilisers to women farmers across the state as part of efforts to strengthen agricultural productivity and support rural women.

Speaking during the event, Mrs. Otti described the occasion as more than just a ceremonial exercise, saying it was a moment to recognise and appreciate the contributions of women whose efforts continue to sustain families, communities, and the state’s economy.

According to her, the initiative goes beyond the supply of fertilisers, stressing that it reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that women farmers are not neglected in the state’s development agenda.

She noted that women who wake up early to cultivate the land, plant crops, and harvest with dedication deserve support and encouragement from government.

Mrs. Otti expressed confidence that with the right backing through modern farming techniques, proper investment, and strategic support, Abia State has the potential not only to feed itself but also become a major centre for agricultural productivity and food security in Nigeria.

She also praised Governor Alex Otti for his people-focused leadership and consistent support, which she said made the programme possible. According to her, the current administration remains committed to practical and inclusive governance that reaches rural communities where agriculture and livelihoods thrive.

“The Office of the First Lady remains committed to improving the welfare and economic empowerment of women farmers across Abia State,” she said.

“We will continue to support programmes that strengthen cooperatives, improve access to agricultural knowledge and extension services, and create better market opportunities for women farmers.

“This intervention is not a one-off gesture, but part of an ongoing commitment to creating opportunities until the women who feed the state can also fully benefit from their labour.”

Mrs. Otti further encouraged women to embrace agriculture as a sector filled with opportunities, innovation, technology, enterprise, and wealth creation, rather than viewing it as a symbol of hardship.

Earlier in their remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Agriculture, Prince Chris Enweremadu; the Commissioner for Agriculture, Ngozi Felix; the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Maureen Ahukwa; a representative of rural women and wife of the First Deputy Chairman of the Council of Traditional Rulers, Ugoeze Peace Ukogo; and the state Labour Party Women Leader, Elizabeth Kalu, commended Governor Alex Otti and his wife for the initiative.

They said the intervention would go a long way in improving the lives and productivity of women farmers in rural communities across Abia State.