Gov. Willie Obiano of Anambra says the State will soon begin the exportation of rice to improve its economy.

He also said the state’s Ministry of Agriculture had cultivated a special brand of pumpkin and bitter leaf.

Obiano announced these during the inauguration of Justice Development and Peace Caritas (JDPC) 2016 Week by Catholic Diocese in Awka on Sunday.

Obiano called on his people to become self-sufficient by cultivating the fertile land to grow and export vegetables.

The governor and his wife Ebelechukwu were later honoured as Grand Pillar and Mother of Charity respectively by the JDPC.

Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese in Akwa said the award was in recognition of their contributions to improving the lives of the poorest of the poor in the state.

“It is also for the numerous development strides his administration had done to better the lots of Ndi Anambra.”

Ezeokafor, whose homily centred on the prodigal son in St. Luke, urged Christians to avail themselves of the second chance provided for them through Christ to return to God and to always show mercy and pity for others.

The bishop said national growth demands contributions from every Nigerian, and advised against infringement on human rights by those in authority.

He called on security operatives to always discharge their duties in a patriotic manner, saying that every Nigerian deserved to be treated with respect not intimidation.

Director of JDPC in Awka, Rev. Fr. Simon Anigbogu said the award was well deserved “with special reference to the adequate security instituted by the governor making Anambra the safest state in Nigeria.”

Anigbogu also extolled the governor.s wife for her special programs for the less privileged and called for collaboration with her foundation for maximum benefit to the poor in the society. (NAN)

•Photo shows Governor Obiano.