Dr. Eric Odo, the Chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area in Enugu State, has explained his decision to appoint Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) focused on specific crops such as yam, garden egg, and pepper. He emphasized that these appointments are part of a strategic plan to boost crop production, support local farmers, and improve the area’s agricultural sector.
Dr. Odo pointed out that Igbo-Etiti has a strong advantage in growing these crops, making it important to focus on their development. He stated that appointing experts as SSAs ensures farmers receive adequate attention, resources, and guidance. This would help increase crop yield, provide better market access, and improve farmers’ incomes.
In an official letter dated November 1, the chairman appointed Ezeugwu Ogbonna as the Senior Special Assistant on Agriculture (Yam and Pepper) and Nwodo Ugonna as the Special Adviser on Garden Egg and Pepper. These roles are meant to drive innovation and productivity in the local farming community.
It read: “I am pleased to inform you that the executive chairman Igbo Etiti LGA has approved your appointment as senior special assistant to the local government chairman on agriculture (yam and pepper.
“You should report to the executive chairman Igbo Etiti LGA, Ogbede, for briefing and deployment.
“It is pertinent to note that this is not a career civil service appointment but a temporary appointment which you hold at the pleasure of the executive chairman of Igbo Etiti LGA.”
Dr. Odo explained that the appointments align with broader goals to uplift the agricultural sector in Igbo-Etiti. The initiative aims to create jobs, improve food security, and promote sustainable development for the region. It also has the potential to enhance export opportunities and contribute to the local economy.
According to him, “In essence, the appointment, which is wrongly misunderstood by disgruntled individuals, bad losers and opposition, reinforces my determination to creating a thriving local economy based on the strengths and potentials of Igbo-Etiti’s agricultural landscape.”
Reacting to negative public opinions, the chairman encouraged people to understand the vision behind the appointments. He described the initiative as a forward-thinking approach to transforming agriculture in Igbo-Etiti. He urged the public to disregard any comments aimed at discrediting the effort and instead support the plan for massive food production and community development.
