Nigeria Enugu LG Chairman Explains Controversial SSA Appointments on Yam, Pepper, and Garden Egg

Enugu’s Igbo-Etiti LGA Chairman, Dr. Eric Odo, defends appointing SSAs for yam, pepper, and garden egg. He emphasizes leveraging the region's agricultural strengths to boost local production, exports, and economic growth. Odo calls for public support, dismissing criticism as opposition tactics against his visionary efforts for sustainable development.

The Chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area in Enugu State, Dr. Eric Odo, has addressed public criticism over the recent appointments of Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) for yam, pepper, and garden egg. He emphasized that these roles are part of a strategic initiative aimed at bolstering agricultural productivity and export capacity.

Dr. Odo clarified that the appointments align with the comparative agricultural strengths of the region, which excels in cultivating these crops. He noted that the strategy is designed to empower local farmers through targeted support, enhanced resources, and market access, thereby improving incomes and contributing to sustainable development.

The appointments, announced in letters dated November 1, 2024, include Ezeugwu Ogbonna as SSA for Agriculture (Yam and Pepper) and Nwodo Ugonna as SSA for Garden Egg and Pepper. These roles, according to Dr. Odo, are temporary and intended to optimize the expertise required for large-scale production and economic growth.

Responding to critics, Dr. Odo described the initiative as a forward-thinking effort to leverage the region’s agricultural potential for job creation and long-term development. He urged the public to dismiss negative commentary, attributing it to political opposition and a misunderstanding of the program’s goals.

Dr. Odo underscored his commitment to fostering a thriving agricultural economy in Igbo-Etiti, asserting that these appointments will serve as a foundation for enhanced food production, farmer empowerment, and community development in the region.