The Delta State Government has announced a comprehensive plan to transform food production in the state, focusing on sustainability, food security and ethical agricultural practices amid growing concerns over land loss, flooding and rising food demand.
The plan was unveiled at the inaugural meeting of the Delta State Steering Committee on Food System Transformation Pathways, where the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Chairman of the Committee, Mr Sonny Ekedayen, outlined the state’s strategy for building a resilient and well-coordinated food system.
Ekedayen said sustainable food production can only be achieved through deliberate planning, proper soil management, the use of appropriate farming machinery, favourable climate adaptation measures and the responsible application of agro-chemicals.
He warned that ignoring these critical factors could threaten food security in the state, especially as urbanisation and frequent flooding continue to reduce available farmland.
“Our lands have been affected by urbanisation and flooding, but we must be intentional in managing our resources to guarantee food security for the people of Delta State,” he said.
Ekedayen explained that the food system transformation pathway is designed to strengthen the entire agricultural value chain by increasing the incomes of farmers, processors, traders and other food system workers, while ensuring that residents have access to safe, affordable and nutritious food.
He added that the initiative would align national food system priorities with Delta State’s specific needs, leading to improved food availability, job creation, higher household incomes and poverty reduction.
The chairman also stressed the importance of collaboration among committee members drawn from ministries, departments, agencies, parastatals and development partners, noting that joint planning and shared expertise are key to achieving the programme’s objectives.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Environment, Mr Jamani Ejiro, highlighted the importance of environmental sustainability in food production. He said a clean and healthy environment is critical for farming, particularly poultry and pig production, and emphasised the need for proper waste management.
Ejiro disclosed that the Ministries of Environment and Agriculture are working together to facilitate land allocation for agricultural purposes to support increased food production.
On his part, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, represented by the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Mrs Stella Macaulay, said the Ministry of Information would drive public awareness and community engagement.
He explained that homestead farming would be promoted through radio jingles, publications and interpersonal communication, while public feedback would be gathered to improve programme implementation.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Barr. Val Areyinka, represented by the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Dr Edmund Orioko, said food production in the state covers both crop farming and animal husbandry.
He disclosed that the state’s 2026 agricultural focus is on crop production, particularly cassava, with about 650 hectares already under cultivation across Delta State.
Dr Orioko added that programmes are also being implemented to support small-scale livestock farmers to boost protein supply and improve nutrition. He noted that the Steering Committee would play a central role in coordinating actions across sectors to ensure the successful implementation of the food system transformation agenda.
Members of the committee later introduced themselves and outlined their responsibilities, expressing optimism about achieving the committee’s mandate. The meeting ended with the administration of the Oath of Allegiance to members of the Delta State Steering Committee on Food System Transformation Pathways.
