The federal ministry of budget and planning, in collaboration with the federal ministry of agriculture and food security has trained and empowered 250 farmers in Delta.

The training was done under the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy programme (NPRGS).

It was declared open by the permanent secretary, federal ministry of agriculture and food security, Temitope Fadeshemi, on Friday in Asaba.

According to him, the initiative is aimed at uplifting the lives of smallholder farmers.

This, he said, would also foster sustainable agricultural practices in the state and Nigeria at large.

Ms Fadeshemi was represented by John Onovroke, a director in the ministry.

According to Ms Fadeshemi, the initiative reflected the government’s dedication to addressing poverty at its roots.

”Today marks a significant milestone in our collective commitment to uplifting the lives of our smallholder farmers and fostering sustainable agricultural practices.

”I am delighted to remind you that NPRGS in collaboration with the Federal Department of Agricultural Extension Service (FDAE) has enumerated and validated approximately 250 farmers for participation in this transformative programme.

”These farmers are not just the backbone of our agricultural sector, they are the heartbeat that forms the heartbeat of our nation’s prosperity,” he said.

Ms Fadeshemi also said that through the training and empowerment programme, the federal government was sowing the seeds of positive change.

He said the initiative would ensure that the smallholder farmers had the knowledge resources and support needed to thrive in an ever-evolving agricultural landscape.

”This programme is not merely an investment in agriculture; it is an investment in the future of our nation.

”As we equip these farmers with the tools to enhance productivity, improve resilience and embrace sustainable practices, we are laying the foundation for a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector.

“I commend the efforts of FDAE for their meticulous work in identifying and validating deserving farmers for this programme.

”The collaboration between our ministry and the NPRGS exemplifies the power of synergy in achieving meaningful impact,” he said.

Ms Fadeshemi while commending the farmers for their role in shaping the nation’s agricultural success, urged them to apply the insight gained in the training to improve their farms and communities.

According to him, your success is intertwined with the prosperity of our nation and together we shall create effects that reach every corner of our great nation.

On his part, the resource person, Prof. Fidelis Emuh, Department of Agriculture, Delta State University, Abraka, noted the importance of agriculture and agro-business to the development of a nation.

He stressed on the need for farmers to grow above just production, distribution and marketing.

”There is the need for value chain distribution, this will enable you to make more money,” he said.

The farmers who were drawn from the 25 local government areas of the state were empowered with farm tools and seedlings such as maize, pepper, tomatoes and okra among others.

(NAN)