Uzodinma Swears In Longers Anyanwu as Agriculture Commissioner

By Princely Onyenwe | News Desk

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, on Monday inaugurated Chief Longers Anyanwu as the Commissioner for Agriculture, officially admitting him into the Imo State Executive Council during a swearing-in ceremony held at the Executive Chambers, Government House, Owerri.

The inauguration followed Anyanwu’s confirmation by the Imo State House of Assembly after a successful screening exercise conducted a few weeks ago under the leadership of Speaker Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe, clearing the final constitutional hurdle for his appointment.

Speaking shortly after taking the oath of office, the governor charged the new commissioner to bring his wealth of experience to bear in repositioning the agricultural sector in line with the administration’s agenda of boosting food production, creating employment, promoting agro-industrial development and strengthening food security across the state.

Members of the State Executive Council, top government officials and other dignitaries witnessed the ceremony.

Chief Longers Anyanwu is a seasoned politician and administrator with previous experience in agricultural governance. He served as Commissioner for Agriculture during the administration of former Governor Ikedi Ohakim between 2007 and 2011, where he coordinated programmes aimed at improving agricultural productivity and supporting farmers across the state.

A prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Obowo Local Government Area of Imo North Senatorial District, Anyanwu also contested for the party’s senatorial ticket before his nomination into the State Executive Council.

His return to the Ministry of Agriculture comes at a time when both the Federal and State Governments are intensifying efforts to improve food security, encourage mechanised farming, support agribusiness and reduce the impact of rising food prices through increased local production.

Notable politicians interviewed by 9News Nigeria (Owerri) believe the appointment reflects Governor Uzodinma’s decision to entrust a familiar hand with one of the state’s most strategic ministries, considering Anyanwu’s previous experience and understanding of the sector.

With his formal inauguration, expectations are high among stakeholders that the ministry will deepen agricultural reforms, expand support for farmers, attract private-sector investment into agribusiness and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economic diversification efforts.