2026 Budget: Chief Whip Pushes for Stronger Food Production, Agriculture Reforms

The Delta State House of Assembly Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources has called on the State Ministry of Agriculture to strengthen its efforts toward improved food production in the 2026 fiscal year.

The Committee Chairman and Chief Whip of the Assembly, Hon. Perkins Umukoro, gave the directive during the ministry’s 2026 budget defence session. Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mr. Val Areyenka, appeared before the lawmakers to present the ministry’s plans for the coming year.

Hon. Umukoro, who represents Sapele Constituency, described agriculture as a central engine of economic growth. He emphasized the need for the ministry to surpass its 2025 performance and intensify efforts to enhance food security statewide.

Flanked by committee members Hon. Isaac Anwuzia, Hon. Augustine Uroye, and Hon. Alfred Martin, the Chief Whip encouraged the ministry to remain committed to deepening agricultural reforms.

He also assured the Commissioner of improved synergy between the legislature and the ministry in 2026, urging the ministry to reciprocate the collaboration.

Responding, Commissioner Areyenka reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to transforming the agricultural sector in the next fiscal year.

He noted that the ministry’s proposed budget is a strategic tool aimed at strengthening ongoing reforms and expanding opportunities for agribusiness development.

A major highlight of the 2026 agricultural agenda, the Commissioner revealed, is the introduction of modern ranching systems for cattle rearers. He explained that the initiative stemmed from Delta State’s recent agricultural mission to Brazil, which exposed officials to global best practices in livestock management.

According to Areyenka, adopting these ranching methods will help minimize farmer–herder conflicts, boost livestock productivity, and improve food security across the state.

The Commissioner further highlighted plans to reinforce the security architecture within farm settlements, stressing that safety remains critical to ensuring sustainable agricultural growth.

He expressed confidence that with adequate funding, stronger stakeholder partnerships, and continuous government support, Delta State is positioned for significant agricultural advancement in 2026.