Stakeholders in Anambra have said that effective implementation of climate-smart agriculture and bamboo development strategies could generate over 20,000 jobs for youths and significantly boost the state’s economy.

The stakeholders made the assertion at a sensitisation programme held at Nnewi North LGA of Anambra on Wednesday.

Delivering the keynote address, former commissioner for agriculture, Forster Ihejiofor, said a structured investment in bamboo and climate-smart agriculture could transform rural economies and tackle environmental challenges.

According to Mr Ihejiofor, climate-smart agriculture rests on three pillars (productivity enhancement, climate adaptation and mitigation).

He proposed a phased implementation roadmap from 2026 to 2030, including statewide awareness campaigns, pilot youth demonstration farms and establishment of bamboo plantation clusters across the state’s three senatorial zones.

“If fully implemented, this initiative will reduce erosion impact across vulnerable communities, create more than 20,000 youth jobs, improve food security and raise rural incomes.

“It will also strengthen the state’s internally generated revenue through value chain development and export opportunities. Bamboo is ‘Anambra’s green gold’, with wide applications ranging from erosion control and land restoration to construction, furniture, renewable energy and international trade.

“The opportunities in bamboo alone can reposition the state economically while addressing pressing environmental concerns,” he said.

The vice-chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Joseph Ikechebelu, said the initiative aligned with efforts to rekindle youth interest in agriculture.

He restated the need for government and stakeholders to invest in the sector to reduce dependence on imported food.

The permanent secretary of the Anambra Ministry of Agriculture, Ifeyinwa Uzoka, called for stronger commitment to organic farming to promote healthy living.

Ms Uzoka warned against harmful practices in food processing, such as the use of detergents in cassava and dye in palm oil, urging stakeholders to prioritise agriculture in their community development plans.

She also highlighted a proposed public-private-community partnership initiative with Honda Agro and Power Products to support farmers, encouraging participants to leverage the opportunity.

Chibuike Obiwuzie, lawmaker representing Anambra South in the Nigeria Youth Parliament, said the programme was designed to empower youths in the zone to take advantage of opportunities in agriculture.

(NAN)