Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo, the Cross River State Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, has announced the upcoming launch of the state’s digital soil map along with a soil fertility survey, marking a pivotal step in the agricultural advancement of the region.

In a recent statement made during a technical meeting to finalize the digitization of the soil map, the Commissioner expressed his satisfaction with the project’s progress. The meeting included key figures such as Prof. Olumuyiwa James Jayeoba, the lead consultant; representatives from the Cross River Geographic Information Agency (CRGIA); a team from Nugitech, a prominent ICT company in Cross River State; and Mr. Dennis Ikpali, the State Director of Project Grow. Ebokpo praised Governor Apostle Prince Bassey Edet Otu for his visionary approach and commitment to fundamentally improving agriculture by employing soil experts for comprehensive mapping and fertility surveys across all 18 local government areas in the state.

Ebokpo highlighted the significance of the meeting in refining the digital portal to ensure it is user-friendly and accessible for farmers and investors. He stated, “This platform will transform the landscape, offering vital soil data that will empower our farmers and draw significant investment into our agricultural sector.”

The digital soil map and fertility survey is anticipated to deliver essential data regarding soil types, fertility levels, and other key metrics. This information will help farmers implement precision agriculture, optimize resource utilization, and increase crop yields. Investors will also gain from the detailed insights, aiding in informed decision-making and targeted investments. The Commissioner concluded by noting that users will be able to access information effortlessly with just a click after the launch.

In separate comments, Prof. Jayeoba and representatives from Nugitech emphasized the project’s significance and their collaborative efforts to ensure its success, while reaffirming their commitment to maintaining confidentiality with the State Government.

Mr. Jesam Iwara, Head of Cadastre at the Cross River Geographic Information Agency, also pledged to provide the team with updated data from the state’s geographic information system.

With the digital soil map set to launch in the upcoming weeks, Cross River State is positioned to emerge as a center for agricultural innovation and investment, utilizing technology for sustainable development and economic growth.

The meeting was attended by various officials, including Prof. John Shiyam, the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture; Ntufam Ekpe Bassey, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary; Mr. Brian Ugbe, Director of Soil Management; and other technical Directors from the Ministry.