The Ebonyi State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Union Dicon Salt Plc for large scale production and processing of cassava in the state.The ceremony, which took place in Abakaliki, had in attendance, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Benard Odoh, who signed on behalf of the state, the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Chief Augustine Nwankwegu, and the Managing Director of Union Dicon Salt, Chuka Mordi, who signed for his company.
The agreement to engage in cassava cultivation and processing in commercial quantity is another bold initiative by the Governor David Umahi-led government to mechanise the agricultural sector and propel the much needed economic diversification in the state.
In the terms of agreement, the Ebonyi State Government will contribute 15,000 hectares of land spread across the state for the Union Dicon Salt to grow cassava and establish a factory where cassava products would be processed into raw materials for export and domestic use.
Governor Umahi, who was represented at the ceremony by Prof. Odoh, expressed optimism that the partnership would open up a new vista of opportunities for investments in the state, create jobs and bring about economic prosperity for the people.
The governor explained that the volume of raw materials from cassava from the factory would create a large market for the products and support brewery companies.
Umahi encouraged the company to hasten action and complete documentation with the state to enable it start off the agricultural project.
Nwankwegu, who gave an insight into the terms of the agreement, noted that apart from the 15,000 hectares of land to be provided, no financial commitment was required from the state government for the agro business.
