Hundreds of farmers in Edo South Senatorial District have benefitted from Senator Neda Imansuen’s agro-empowerment scheme as 240 rural farmers were provided with equipment to support farming in the 77 wards across the seven local government areas of the senatorial district.
The empowerment scheme was a collaborative effort between Senator Imasuen and the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River, Enugu State. Beneficiaries received items including insecticides, cutlasses, hoes, rain boots, files and hand gloves to enhance their productivity in farming.
Senator Neda Imasuen, who represents Edo South in the Senate, emphasised the urgent need to support local farmers in the face of rising food inflation across the country.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the event, he explained that he had to extend the programme to a second day because it was very dear to his heart saying that he wants to empower farmers to do more in what they do in their farms.
He expressed satisfaction with the turnout and enthusiasm shown by the farmers and encouraged them to make good use of the implements provided to increase their yields.
“It’s my prayer and hope that they will utilise these farming implements, the incentives I’ve given to them, so that they can improve and increase their yields. All for the betterment, not only of their families, but also for the community as well,” he said.
Highlighting the significance of agriculture to national development, Senator Imasuen reiterated his commitment to empowering farmers as a means of ensuring food security.
One of the resource persons, Ireti Odi, delivered a lecture on Agribusiness Management, urging the farmers to view themselves as vital contributors to the national economy. She encouraged them to approach farming as a business and to make the most of the tools and knowledge shared with them.
Another resource person, Mr Lekan Salam, also gave a practical session on the effective use of the distributed implements, guiding the farmers on how to maximise their utility on the field.
In his remarks, Iteire Curtis, who represented the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River, praised Senator Imasuen for his dedication to grassroots development, promising to deliver a comprehensive report on the programme.
