Benue State To Train Farmers on Modern Farming Techniques
As part of efforts to keep up the legacy as the Food Basket of the Nation, the Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia has promised to facilitate education of Benue state farmers on the adoption of new farming methods and technologies.
Speaking to participants at the National Agricultural Mechanization and Innovation Summit (NAMIS’) organized by Coalition Network of Stakeholders in Agricultural Mechanization (CONESAM) in collaboration with Benue State Government, held at Benue Hotels, Makurdi the Governor made the promise.
According to him, it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that Benue State continues to live up to her branding as the Food Basket of the Nation.
While acknowledging that Benue State is largely populated with small scale farmers, Governor Alia said it is pertinent to appreciate the fact that agriculture is not just a means of subsistence but also a business that can generate income and create employment opportunities for women and the teeming youth.
The Governor identified inadequate infrastructure, insecurity, and lack of access to finance as some of the major challenges hindering the growth and development of agribusiness in Benue State.
However, he promised to make greater investments in infrastructural development, ensure sufficient security for farmers, and foster favourable conditions for financial access.
Governor Hyacinth Alia appreciated the organizers of the summit and urged Benue stakeholders in the agricultural sector to take advantage of the submit and equip themselves with useful knowledge for enhanced agribusiness.in the state.
In his welcome address, Fidelis Unongo, a major stakeholder of Agricultural Mechanization in Benue State, underscored the importance of the summit and called on Nigerians to make use of the opportunity provided by CONESAM for improved agricultural productivity.
The Coalition Network of Stakeholders in Agricultural Mechanization (CONESAM) led by its Secretary, Fatima Garba Nuhu presented some of their products to the Governor, and the CONESAM Exco in Benue State was also inaugurated.
Agro Nigeria / Foluke Ibitomi
