The Cross River State Government has unveiled plans to attract over N150 billion in private-sector investment into agriculture over the next six years as part of efforts to transform the state into a major agribusiness hub.
Speaking during a media briefing in Calabar, the Coordinator of Project GROW, Dennis Ikpali, disclosed that the state has already secured an N18 billion produce offtake agreement aimed at guaranteeing markets for farmers and boosting agricultural productivity. He also revealed that the government has established a N30 billion Agri-Development Fund to provide investment guarantees and encourage private-sector participation in the sector.
According to Ikpali, the state has facilitated more than N3 billion in agricultural financing while securing an additional N1.5 billion to support farming activities during the 2026 planting season.
He explained that the initiative is designed to strengthen food production, create jobs, improve rural livelihoods, and position Cross River as a leading destination for agribusiness investment in Nigeria.
The state government believes that the combination of guaranteed produce markets, increased financing, and strategic partnerships with investors will accelerate agricultural growth and unlock new economic opportunities across Cross River communities.
Stakeholders say the move could significantly boost local food production and enhance the state's contribution to national food security if effectively implemented.
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