*Releases N1 Billion AUDA-NEPAD Counterpart Fund to Boost Agric. Development
By Sunday Apah
On Tuesday, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, announced the distribution of essential agricultural inputs to 6,020 farmers in a significant effort to enhance agricultural production and ensure food security within the state.
During the launch of this initiative, held at the Events Centre in Asaba, the Governor revealed a N1 billion counterpart fund dedicated to the Africa Union Development Agency, New Partnership for African Development (AUDA-NEPAD). This funding aims to empower an additional 2,000 farmers involved in food production, livestock, and aquaculture.
Governor Oborevwori highlighted the government’s commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector, stating that these measures are crucial not only for Delta state but for national food security as well.
He encouraged the beneficiaries to take full advantage of this opportunity by effectively using the inputs provided, which will enhance their productivity and contribute to the growth of the agricultural sector.
“The disbursement today is part of a broader initiative aimed at equipping over 6,000 dedicated farmers with the necessary tools to amplify agricultural productivity and improve food security across our state,” he stated.
“Our commitment to the Sustainable Agricultural Sector Reforms is integral to the M.O.R.E Agenda. We believe that with the right support, our farmers can continue to play a vital role in our economy.
“Agriculture is a cornerstone of our development strategy. Through this initiative, we aim to boost food production, increase household incomes, and enhance the livelihoods of countless individuals in Delta State.
“Additionally, in collaboration with AUDA-NEPAD, we have approved N1 billion as a counterpart fund to support 2,000 farmers in various sectors, including food production, livestock, and aquaculture.”
The Governor expressed gratitude to the Delta CARES team and all stakeholders for their efforts in making this initiative a success: “Together, we are building a more resilient Delta, prepared to meet challenges and seize opportunities.”
Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, Commissioner for Economic Planning and Chairman of the State CARES Steering Committee, remarked that the empowerment of 6,020 farmers falls under the food security component of the Delta CARES Programme.
He emphasized the importance of the agricultural sector to the state’s economy, detailing how the beneficiaries would enhance productivity across a variety of areas including poultry, fish farming, cassava cultivation, maize, pepper, and vegetable farming.
Mr. Ekedayen encouraged residents of Delta to consider urban farming in available spaces to combat rising food prices and boost overall productivity.
Several beneficiaries, including Friday Imonikebe, Paul Ejuone, and Ifeoma Akinjare, expressed their gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for the support and praised him for his efforts in advancing infrastructure projects throughout the state, such as the construction of Emevor-Orogun Road phases 1 and 2.
