The Federal Government has empowered 60 rice farmers in Ogun State in an effort to promote farmers’ output and accelerate the country’s transition to self-sufficiency in food production with provision of farming materials.
The materials were distributed to rice growers, most of whom were women and youths, at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security’s Kotopo, Abeokuta office, where they were also instructed on Climate Resilient Practices in Rice Production, Processing and Marketing.
Alhaji Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, described the intervention as a crucial and timely response to rising staple food prices and ongoing climatic challenges.
Represented by the Director, Extension Services in the Ministry, Dr Deola Tayo – Lordbanjou, the Minister explained that the present administration was committed to improving the lives of all Nigerians.
He urged the participants to utilize the training and empowerment opportunities towards implementing innovative ideas as change agents and driving forces for sustainable development.
Addressing the devastating effects of climate change on rice production, the Resource Person, Mr Nureni Sanusi highlighted drought and flooding as major threats and recommended irrigation farming, and advocated low – land spaces for rice cultivation to further boost food security and create wealth among the farmers.
Mr Sanusi also encouraged the rice growers to be proactive in navigating the challenges of climate change towards ensuring bumper harvest this new season.
Ogun state Coordinator, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and food Security, Dr Oluwatoyin Ayo – Ajayi called on the participants to cooperate with the government and collaborate with relevant stakeholders in the efforts to surmount the prevailing challenges.
Ogun State Agricultural Development Project, OGADEP, Mrs Abiola Sobukola gave the assurance that the state would not relent in ensuring sustainable agricultural development towards achieving food security.
Representatives of the beneficiaries, drawn from various groups of rice farmers, as well as members of various university communities across the State, were unanimous in their gratitude to the government for the gesture, and they urged the relevant authorities to implement measures to sustain such interventions.
