The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) has launched an Agricultural Support Programme Workshop in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Southern Nigeria, to tackle food insecurity and empower rural communities.
The programme is designed to train farmers, women, youths, students, and small-scale agribusiness owners in modern and sustainable agricultural practices.
The workshop was formally declared open by the First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu and was represented by the wife of the Rivers State Governor, Mrs Valerie Fubara.
In her opening remarks, Mrs Fubara emphasised the critical role agriculture plays in economic development and food sustainability. She encouraged participants to take the workshop seriously as it serves as a foundational step toward the Agricultural Empowerment Programme slated for Tuesday, October 14, 2025.
“Agriculture is a serious business that requires knowledge and dedication. Whether you are in poultry or crop farming, this training will provide you with practical skills to enhance your productivity. Please, take every session seriously,” Mrs Fubara said.
The programme features technical training on crop production, livestock care, and poultry management. The sessions aim to boost farm yields, promote agribusiness entrepreneurship, and provide participants with tools for long-term success.
A keynote address was delivered by Professor Joseph Orluchukwu, presented by Professor Udensi Udensi, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Port Harcourt, titled “General Smart Agriculture in Relation to the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).” The address highlighted the importance of transitioning from traditional farming techniques to smarter, technology-driven methods.
“Smart agriculture is no longer optional, it’s essential. With Nigeria’s growing population, food demand is rising rapidly. To meet this demand, we must adopt innovative techniques, improve infrastructure, and invest in farmers through education and financial support,” Professor Orluchukwu said.
He further called for stronger collaboration between the government, private sector, and non-governmental organisations to ensure long-term agricultural growth.
The Renewed Hope Initiative’s Agricultural Support Programme is a key component of a nationwide strategy to foster self-reliance, reduce unemployment, and strengthen Nigeria’s food production systems. It also aligns with the Nigerian Government’s broader economic diversification goals.
Participants at the workshop expressed optimism, describing the training as timely and impactful. Many noted that the insights gained would help them improve their operations and contribute more meaningfully to the state’s agricultural output.
As the programme continues through the week, attention is now focused on the main Agricultural Empowerment Day scheduled for October 14, when selected trainees are expected to receive starter packs and other forms of support to launch or scale their agribusinesses.
The initiative reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to economic inclusion through agriculture, empowering communities, especially women and youths, to build a more food-secure nation.