The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has launched the distribution of 5,000 packs of hybrid non-genetically modified (non-GMO) seeds to residents across the state in a renewed drive to promote home gardening, improve household food security, and encourage subsistence farming.
According to a statement issued in Awka on Friday by her media aide, Daniel Ezeigwe, the initiative was introduced at the start of the rainy season farming cycle to enable households grow food crops within their homes and communities while adopting sustainable agricultural practices.
Each pack contains improved varieties of maize, vegetables, cabbage, pepper, tomatoes, and okra, aimed at supporting small-scale household gardens that can enhance nutrition and supplement family income.
READ ALSO: Food security: Nigerian Army Supports Zamfara Farmers With Fertiliser
Speaking on the initiative, Dr. Soludo described agriculture as central to food security, poverty reduction, and economic stability, noting that increased participation in farming is essential to addressing current economic pressures.
She said rising food prices and broader economic challenges have made home gardening and subsistence farming more important for many households.
“Home gardening is not just about planting crops around the house; it is about promoting healthier living, food security, and economic relief for families. Even a small garden can provide vegetables and food items that reduce household expenses and improve nutrition,” she said.
Dr. Soludo added that subsistence farming remains a key support system for many low-income families, particularly in rural communities, helping them to become more self-reliant amid economic uncertainty.
“In difficult economic times, subsistence farming empowers families to become more self-reliant. When people grow part of their own food, they are better able to withstand rising food prices and economic uncertainties,” she said.
She urged women and young people to embrace agriculture at the household level, describing it as a practical means of reducing hunger, unemployment, and poverty.
“Agriculture feeds families, creates employment, supports local economies, and promotes dignity and self-reliance. We must revive the culture of farming in our homes and communities because agriculture has the power to create wealth and secure the future of our children,” she added.
The First Lady further said home gardening supports healthier diets, environmental sustainability, and community participation in food production.
She disclosed that details of the seed distribution process would be announced in the coming days and encouraged residents to participate in the programme.
Dr. Soludo also noted that since the initiative began in 2024, a total of 25,000 seed packs have been distributed across Anambra State to support grassroots farming and household food production.
