Sujimoto group, Enugu govt join forces in ambitious agricultural venture

In a strategic move to combat food insecurity and foster economic growth, Sujimoto Group is set to collaborate with the Enugu State Government on an unprecedented agricultural initiative.

The ambitious project involves the establishment of the Sujimoto Rice Farm Estate, spanning an extensive 30,000 hectares of land.

Enugu, historically known as the City of Coal, with a legacy marked by influential figures such as Chief Nnamdi Azikiwe and Akanu Ibiam, is poised for transformation under the visionary leadership of Governor Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.

The collaboration aims to leverage the state’s vast resources, favorable weather conditions, and a land area of 7,161 km2 to propel Enugu into a $30 billion economy by 2030.

The Sujimoto Farm Estate, a pioneering endeavor, will not only focus on advanced rice farming but also integrate housing, farm hospitals, hotels, and markets within a holistic ecosystem.

This multifaceted approach is designed to drive agro-tourism, generate employment opportunities, and provide affordable housing solutions for the people of Enugu State.

Upon arrival in the city through the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, the Sujimoto team was warmly welcomed by the hospitable Ndi Enugu, reflecting the community’s enthusiasm for progressive development.

The Chief of Staff, Barrister Victor Udeh, facilitated a smooth transition to the Maxbe Continental Hotel, underscoring the governor’s commitment to ensuring a comfortable stay.

During their visit, the Sujimoto team immersed themselves in the local culture, enjoying traditional delicacies at a well-structured Mama Put establishment.

The scenic drive through the city showcased ongoing infrastructural developments, emphasizing the transformative agenda implemented by Governor Mbah since assuming office in 2023.

The heart of the collaboration lies in the ambitious project’s scale, spanning over 30,000 hectares of rice farm with an annual production target of 800,000 tonnes.

This initiative is anticipated to revolutionize rice paddy processing, enhance self-sufficiency, and contribute significantly to economic growth in Enugu State, creating over 10,000 jobs, particularly for youth and women.

Governor Mbah’s unwavering support for the project was evident, as he emphasized, “Nothing will stop this ambitious project—not money, not location. I will do everything within my capacity to make sure this project comes to fruition.” The collaboration also extends to exploring opportunities for a Sujimoto cement plant in Enugu, capitalizing on the state’s resources such as coal and limestone.

Dr. Sijibomi Ogundele, the Group Managing Director of Sujimoto Group, expressed confidence in Enugu’s potential to replicate the economic prosperity witnessed in Dubai and Singapore. The collaborative efforts align with Governor Mbah’s vision of making Enugu the investment capital of Nigeria.

Beyond the agricultural venture, discussions also encompassed Sujimoto’s ambitious smart city project, a blueprint for replicating the success of Dubai in select Nigerian cities. The meeting explored the possibility of extending the Smart City project to cover Enugu State as a major capital city in south-eastern Nigeria.

As the collaboration progresses, the Sujimoto Farm Estate is poised to play a pivotal role in realizing Governor Mbah’s vision for Enugu State’s transformation across various sectors. The project’s overarching goal is to contribute to reducing hunger to zero by 2031, positioning the coal city-state as a prominent agro-tourism destination and the nation’s food basket.

Dr. Sijibomi Ogundele, known as the Czar of Luxury Real Estate Development, concluded the visit with gratitude for the support received from key figures such as the Commissioner of Agriculture, Hon. Patrick Nwabueze Ubru, and Special Adviser to the Governor, Engr. Mike Ogbuekwe.

The collaboration represents a significant milestone in Enugu’s journey towards economic prosperity and sustainable development.