The governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki who performed the inauguration through the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and National Resources, Mr Peter Aikhuomobhogbe charged the committee members to work assiduously to ensure that Edo State MEGA agenda is actualised.
According to him, “the formation of this committee is very app because of the developmental agenda of Mr Governor. We hope this will address land issues in our state. I have so much confidence in this committee going by the array of professionals put together to serve in this committee”.
In his remark, Chuks Ofulue, representative of Partnership Initiatives In the Niger Delta (PIND) who is working closely with the state government to ensure that the committee functions optimaly said research has revealed that apart from the issue of finance, small holder farmers also face the challenges of availability of land.
He said that PIND is set up 11years ago to ensure economic development and peace in the Niger Delta. “We partnerwith government to put aside any thing that will clog development. We also want to ensure that small holder farmers have a voice “, he said.
The Chairman of the committee, Mr Kelvin Uwaibi, assured the state government and PIND that the committee members will bring their wealth of experience to bare to ensure that small holder farmer in the state gain access to arable lands.
Said he, “We need to find solutions to the issue of land in the state. Edo state should be known as a friendly state with respect to investments. We will work with the terms of reference to achieve the purpose for this committe”.
In his contribution, Chief Amadin Osayande, Deputy Chairman All farmers Association of Nigeria said for the committee to succeed, they must work closely with government, community and individuals who are known legal land owners.
Members of the committee include, Kelvin Uwaibi, Ramson Aibie, Chief Amadin Osayande, Churchill Oboh, Curtis Ogbebor, Abusomwan Kingsley and Erhumwonse.
Others are, His Royal Highness D. E Igiehon, Chief Oronsaye, Dr Peter Osaiede Vincent Ohwongiakpo, Dr. Ehigiamusoe and Mr Henry Enabulele.
