Nigerian First Lady launches agricultural empowerment programme in Ebonyi State

The Wife of the President, Oluremi Tinubu, on Friday inaugurated the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Agriculture Support Programme in Ebonyi state.

Mrs Tinubu launched the Grand Agro Empowerment Programme for Women, Youths, and Young Farmers Club in schools.

The event, promoting sustainable agriculture, took place at the Old Presidential Lodge, Abakaliki.

The reports that the club’s inauguration was in collaboration with BERWO, the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, and the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).

Tinubu, represented by the State Coordinator of RHI, Mrs Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, said the initiative aimed to inspire a new generation of young farmers.

She disclosed that over 100 women in agriculture would be empowered through the programme.

The initiative, she stated, reflected a collective commitment to food security, economic empowerment, and sustainable agriculture in the state and country.

She added that the programme recognised potential by establishing Young Farmers Clubs in schools. It provided mentorship programmes where experienced farmers would guide young members.

Tinubu expressed her commitment to fostering an environment where everyone would have the opportunity to thrive through agriculture.

“We aim to empower women by providing training workshops on sustainable farming practices, financial literacy, and business management skills,” she said.

The First Lady added that access to resources such as seedlings, fertilisers, and funds would enhance productivity.

“By connecting women farmers with each other, we can help them share knowledge and increase economic opportunities,” Tinubu assured.

Mrs Nkechineyre Iyioku, Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, appreciated the initiative. She urged new members to take pride in their role as future leaders in agriculture.

Also, Mr Sunday Ituma, State Programme Coordinator of the International Fund for Agriculture Support Valued Chain Development Programme, pledged maximum support to achieve results.

“Agriculture employs 70 per cent of our population, and we are working to ensure its effective practice,” Ituma said.

Victory Otti and Saviour Egwu, students and Young Farmers Club members, promised to extend the programme to their respective schools.

The  inductees received farming tools and improved seedlings from the First Lady.

The event featured lectures on rice and cassava best practices, bag-yam and potatoes technology, and backyard gardening.
NAN / Foluke Ibitomi