The Ebonyi State Executive Council (EXCO), led by Governor Francis Nwifuru, has approved a proposal for the establishment of state-owned herbal gardens across the three senatorial zones of the state, with one garden located in each zone.

​Briefing journalists in Abakaliki, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Ikeuwa Omebeh, confirmed that the Council approved the memorandum and its accompanying prayers as presented.

The project, designated as the Ebonyi State Herbal Heritage Garden, will be anchored by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

The project will be executed jointly in partnership with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

​According to Omebeh, following authorisation, relevant ministries will immediately begin stakeholders’ engagement, site identification, and the establishment of a state regulatory framework.

He added that ​the state will collaborate with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and various research institutions to ensure safety and quality standards.

​A supplementary memorandum is to be submitted within 90 days.

This will address key legislation covering product standardisation, intellectual property protection, and the integration of herbal remedies into primary healthcare centers. (Channels)