Echocho vs Propaganda: The Triumph of Substance Over Noise »

Inside Senator’s Unmatched Legacy in Agriculture and Rural Empowerment

In today’s political climate, where propaganda and media sensationalism often take center stage, political leaders are increasingly urged by analysts and observers alike to tell their own stories, not just for political advantage, but for transparency, public accountability, and historical documentation. However, there are still a few leaders who believe that “action speaks louder than words.” Among them is the distinguished Senator representing Kogi East Senatorial District, Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho.

A first-class economist, an accomplished investment banker, and a compassionate public servant, Senator Echocho has consistently demonstrated that leadership is not about noise but impact. He has chosen to let the results of his representation speak for themselves, firmly believing that the real testimonies of stewardship lie in the lives of the constituents who directly benefit from his initiatives and the constituents are saying this is the time to voice out for the senator who has done so much for them.

While some aspiring politicians have launched smear campaigns and media propaganda to undermine his credibility, Senator Echocho remains undeterred, focused squarely on the task of delivering meaningful and lasting dividends of democracy to his people. His legacy, especially in the area of agricultural transformation and rural development, continues to gain momentum across Kogi East.

One of the most remarkable and impactful sectors Senator Echocho has strategically prioritized is agriculture. With a deep understanding of its transformative power, he has initiated and executed several projects that have not only enhanced food production but have also significantly improved the economic well-being of farmers and rural dwellers across Kogi East.
The first step Echocho took in his agricultural intervention was to breathe life into the dormant and moribund Acharu Palm Oil Mill
In Dekina Local Government Area, where the historic Acharu Palm Oil Mill had long remained moribund for over two decades, Senator Echocho intervened decisively. Established over fifty years ago by the Agricultural Development Programme (ADP), the mill was designed to revolutionize palm oil processing and create jobs. Unfortunately, successive administrations neglected it until Echocho stepped in.
Today, the mill has been fully reactivated, test-run, and is awaiting formal government takeover. This singular intervention is not just reviving economic activities in the area; it is restoring hope to thousands of palm oil farmers who now have access to modern milling equipment, better yields, and improved income. It is an emblem of how dormant assets can be revitalized to drive rural prosperity.

In Ankpa Local Government Area, where cassava is cultivated in abundance, Senator Echocho recognized the urgent need for value addition. To bridge the processing gap and ensure that farmers maximize the commercial potential of cassava, he constructed a modern integrated cassava processing plant.
In a commendable move toward inclusive empowerment, women and youths were selected and trained in cassava processing, packaging, and product diversification. This facility not only encourages agro-industrial development but also promotes job creation, food security, and economic empowerment.

Echocho also demonstrated resilience amidst flooding by construction of Ibaji and Abejukolo Integrated Rice Mill for the rural farmers.
Ibaji and Omala LGAs, flanked by the River Niger and River Benue respectively, are highly fertile but flood-prone regions. Despite seasonal flooding challenges, rice and yam farming thrive. Senator Echocho responded to the region’s unique geography by constructing ultra-modern rice milling plants at Ejule Ojebe in Ibaji and Abejukolo in Omala.
The Ibaji Rice Mill, powered by a 250KVA generator, was built to enhance post-harvest processing and reduce post-harvest losses. Though temporarily affected by the devastating 2023 flood, Senator Echocho demonstrated resilience and foresight by reintroducing the Ibaji Integrated Rice Mill into the 2025 Appropriation Act, ensuring its expansion and continuity.

To lift farming beyond the subsistence level, Senator Echocho distributed 12 Ferguson tractors across the nine local government areas in Kogi East. These machines have since revolutionized cultivation methods, increased farm productivity, and inspired a new wave of mechanized agriculture in the district.

Kogi East is Nigeria’s largest producer of cashew nuts, contributing significantly to the state’s position as the nation’s cashew capital. To harness this potential, Senator Echocho established an Integrated Cashew Processing Plant in Ogbabo Udachi, Ofu LGA.
With the capacity to produce cashew juice, oil, and other by-products, the plant is projected to boost local cashew farming, encourage youth participation in agro-processing, and raise the region’s export profile.
In a visionary legislative move, Echocho also sponsored a Bill for the Establishment of the National Cashew Production and Research Institute at Idah. Once passed into law, the institute will not only advance research and innovation in cashew farming but also create employment, enhance education, and drive economic growth across the region. In addition to these numerous interventions, farmers in our rural communities were also empowered by senator with improved farming tools, fertilizers, Argo-chemicals and other basic farm inputs.

Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho intervention is more than just agriculture but a holistic approach to representation. Senator Echocho’s achievements span far beyond agriculture. From health and education to infrastructure, power supply, water access, and legislative advocacy, he has left no sector untouched. His performance in the National Assembly includes the sponsorship of impactful bills and motions, support for social amenities, and provision of empowerment programs for women and youth.
What makes Echocho’s style of representation unique is his unmatched commitment to constituency-first governance. For him, politics is not a means of self-aggrandizement but a platform to serve, empower, and uplift.

Echocho is a political leader with a stake amongst the constituents.
Long before venturing into elective office, Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho had already invested heavily in humanitarian and development initiatives within Kogi East. His pre-political record of service earned him the admiration of the people who now see him as a dependable figure, a political messiah who understands their struggles and delivers on promises.
At a time when some are clamoring for “change” based on empty rhetoric, Kogi East is standing firmly behind a man whose legacy is written in stone and whose projects are touching lives. They are not ready to trade proven representation for empty promises.

In a region that has witnessed years of poor representation marked by cronyism and political favoritism, Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho has redefined what it means to be a people’s senator. Through thoughtful planning, strategic interventions, and bold execution, he has shown that governance can work if driven by sincerity, expertise, and a deep connection to the people.

As Kogi East prepares for another round of political decision-making, the legacy of Senator Echocho stands tall, a quiet performer whose trumpet is best blown by the grateful hearts of his constituents.

Dr Mike Adaji James
Federal Ministry of Agriculture, FCT
Abuja.

Adajijames02@gmail.com