The Edo government on Saturday launched the “Plant, Nurture, Eat–Edo Girls’ Farm Project” to promote youth empowerment and food security.

The initiative, led by Sally Suleiman, the Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to Governor Monday Okpebholo, was unveiled as part of activities marking the 2025 International Women’s Day.

Ms Suleiman stated that the project aims to equip young girls with essential agricultural skills, providing them with hands-on farming experience while instilling values such as patience, responsibility, and self-sufficiency.

“It also supports sustainable agriculture and food security in line with the state’s broader economic development goals,” she said.

She noted the project’s role in addressing gender disparities in agriculture and empowering girls with lifelong skills.

“Agriculture is a powerful tool for economic transformation, and by engaging young girls early, we are equipping them with the skills they need to be self-reliant, contribute to food security, and take leadership roles in agribusiness,” said Ms Suleiman.

She said the initiative aligned with Mr Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda (Security, Health, Infrastructure, Nutrition, and Education), which prioritises agriculture.

“The programme also directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Quality Education (SDG 4), and Gender Equality (SDG 5).

“Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural practices while ensuring gender inclusion in economic development.

“This initiative is a step toward empowering the next generation of female leaders in agriculture, ensuring that young girls in Edo are not left behind in our pursuit of food security and economic sustainability,” she said.

Ms Suleiman stated that the project is expected to inspire more young girls to explore careers in agriculture and agribusiness.

“The Edo State government believes that by investing in the agricultural skills of young girls today, it is laying a strong foundation for a more food-secure and economically empowered future,” she explained.

(NAN)