The Nation Newspaper

Category: Agriculture

  • Katsina procures 400 tractors, 722 extension workers, motorcycles to boost farming

    Katsina procures 400 tractors, 722 extension workers, motorcycles to boost farming

    The Katsina State Government has declared a massive boost to food security through investment in agriculture, livestock development, procurement of 400 tractors,722 extension workers, motorcycles and  knapsack sprayers 

    The Deputy Governor Farouk Jobe, who spoke during the 4th edition of the monthly briefing, further described the achievements as part of effort of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda to promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability in the management of public funds.

    He said: “Recognising the crucial role of agriculture in food security, employment generation, and poverty alleviation as well as the significance of water resources in promoting agricultural productivity and improving livelihoods, this administration has prioritized these sectors,”

    The Deputy Governor further stated the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has incurred huge expenditure amounting to N36,040,981,760.00 for the procurement of 20,000 metric tons of fertilizer for 2024 farming season, 722 motorcycles and knapsack sprayers for use of 722 extension workers deployed to serve in 361 wards across the State to ensure effective monitoring.

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    He further stated N21,765,381,078.00 was also expended for the procurement of 400 tractors with full accessories, 2,000 hand planters and 10 combine harvesters, with a view to providing farmers with required agricultural implements to boost food production in the State

    On the activities of the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (KTARDA), the Deputy Governor stated that Government has spent N273,604,600.00 to carry out numerous activities for the development of agriculture including the purchase and distribution of 40 motorcycles for monitoring activities and the distribution of agrochemicals for pest controls

    According to him: “In order to utilise the services of the earlier mentioned 722 extension workers, 54,150 moringa seedlings were distributed to farmers across the State, while a total of 150 women were trained and empowered on backyard gardening and formulation of nutritive food supplement.”

  • Nigeria risks trade as EU sets December 2025 deadline for deforestation compliance 

    Nigeria risks trade as EU sets December 2025 deadline for deforestation compliance 

    Nigeria faces potential trade restrictions on key agricultural exports including rubber, palm oil, soybeans, wood, beef, cocoa, and coffee if it fails to comply with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) by December 31, 2025.

    The EU initially set January 1, 2025, as the deadline for enforcing the regulation but later extended it to the end of the year to allow member states more time for compliance.

    At a training program on EUDR compliance held at the University of Ibadan on February 28, 2025, Florence Omolola Jones-Idowu, President of the Association for Forest Conservation and Green Industrial Charcoal Merchants (also known as Charcoal Legality), warned that non-compliance could cost Nigeria significant export revenue.

    Jones-Idowu emphasized the need for proactive measures, including implementing a Central Traceability and Release System, which ensures tree planting in proportion to forest harvest. This system would align with Nigeria’s forestry regulations, international certifications, and EUDR compliance standards.

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    The training, aimed at government agencies, industry stakeholders, and exporters, included participants from the Federal Ministry of Environment, the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, and state forestry and agriculture ministries. Representatives of farmers, producers, processors, and merchants of EUDR-regulated commodities also attended.

    Jones-Idowu clarified that while wood and charcoal exports contribute to deforestation, they are not the primary cause. She pointed out that population growth, agriculture, housing expansion, economic pressures, and globalization are the major drivers, which the EUDR aims to address comprehensively.

    The EU Deforestation Regulation replaces the previous European Union Timber Regulation (EUTR), which primarily applied to tropical wood and charcoal. Unlike the EUTR, the new law covers a broader range of products, potentially affecting all agro-exports and non-oil exports, including items packaged with wood-based materials like cartons and paper bags.

    “Even rubber derivatives, such as latex used in condom production, could fall under EUDR scrutiny, with implications for the health sector,” Jones-Idowu noted. “There are just 10 months left before the regulation takes effect, and failure to comply could disrupt exports.”

    She stressed that the EU has granted an extra year for compliance, but by January 1, 2026, the regulation will be fully enforced. Nigerian exporters will need to prove that their goods do not contribute to deforestation, or risk their shipments being blocked at EU customs.

    EU importers will also be held accountable under due diligence obligations. If they fail to ensure compliance, they could face prosecution, fines, or imprisonment.

    Jones-Idowu urged all stakeholders along the supply chain to adopt traceability systems and tree-planting initiatives, emphasizing that compliance is not just about avoiding trade barriers but also about long-term environmental sustainability.

    Felicia Udeh, Assistant Director at the Ministry of Trade and Industry, highlighted the importance of understanding the full impact of deforestation. She stressed that beyond compliance, the regulation requires widespread awareness and education on sustainable practices.

    The training, conducted by SCS Global Services (USA), was led by Jan Pierre Jarrin Peters, Managing Director of the EU Program at SCS, and Dr. Richard Bonsi, African Representative of SCS Global Services.

  • ARCN proposes dedicated funding for digital agriculture 

    ARCN proposes dedicated funding for digital agriculture 

    The Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) has proposed the establishment of dedicated funding programs to drive innovation in digital agriculture, including precision farming technologies, to enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global agricultural sector.

    Speaking at a summit on Sustainable Agricultural Extension Services Delivery in Nigeria held in Abuja, ARCN’s Executive Secretary, Professor Garba Sharubutu, while delivering a keynote address, emphasised the urgent need to transition from traditional extension services to digital-driven solutions that provide real-time knowledge dissemination and support for farmers.

    He highlighted the National Electronic Extension Platform (NEEP) as a key initiative aimed at bridging the gap between research institutions and farmers by enabling seamless communication and rapid responses to agricultural challenges.

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     However, he stressed that for digital extension services to be effective, they must be accessible to smallholder farmers, who constitute the backbone of Nigeria’s food production.

    To achieve this, Professor Sharubutu called for targeted investments in digital infrastructure, literacy programs, and affordable technology to ensure rural farmers benefit from these emerging innovations. 

    He also underscored the need for policy coherence and institutional strengthening, emphasizing regulations that safeguard farmers’ data rights, promote public-private partnerships, and drive research and development in digital agriculture.

    Sharubutu further urged multi-stakeholder collaboration, calling on public institutions, private enterprises, and civil society organisations to work together in building an inclusive, demand-driven agricultural extension model.

    As part of its commitment to advancing technology-driven agricultural development, he said the ARCN has launched multiple initiatives, including: Electronic Technology Transfer (ETT), Adopted Villages & Agricultural Research Outreach Centers (AROCs) and Digitalized Agricultural Research Museum.

    Additionally, he added that the ARCN is working with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) on the National Adopted Village for Smart Agriculture (NAVSA) a data-driven platform designed to integrate technology across Nigeria’s agricultural value chain and revolutionize the sector.

  • Senator Mustapha promoting Tinubu’s agriculture, food security agenda, say Barau, Kyari

    Senator Mustapha promoting Tinubu’s agriculture, food security agenda, say Barau, Kyari

    …as Kwara Central lawmaker empowers 2,500 constituents 

    Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, and the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, have hailed the empowerment initiative of Senator Saliu Mustapha, describing it as aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agriculture and food security agenda.

    The programme, tagged “Alubarika 1.0 Agricultural and Human Capital Development Empowerment Programme,” saw Senator Mustapha (APC, Kwara Central) distribute empowerment tools and materials to over 2,500 constituents in Ilorin.

    Held at the Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority’s premises in Kwara State, the event also witnessed the donation of 200 sewing machines by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin for onward distribution to Kwara Central constituents.

    Barau said: “We have all decided to come here and share this moment with our brother, Senator Saliu Mustapha because of this great empowerment programme for constituents in the area of agriculture and human capital development.

    “These are key areas that are very important to our national development “Because we don’t need to waste much time talking about the importance of agriculture in every society. Agriculture is sine qua non to the survival of every society because without food no life.

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    “And this is a cardinal programme of this administration and the renewed Hope of Mr President to provide food for all.

    “No wonder the constituents decided to pick Saliu Mustapha, who is an outstanding person and party leader in this country.

    “He is a very friendly human being, industrious and peaceful, who connects with everybody in the Senate. In fact, you’ve done the right thing by electing him.

    “All the time he’s going to speak on the floor of the Senate, it’s about what is going to come to Kwara.”

    On his part, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Kyari lauded Mustapha for implementing projects that promotes food security in the country in line with the objectives of the present administration.

    Kyari said: “You are doing well on the floor of the Senate. Tinubu’s food security initiative working. Food isn’t only becoming affordable but available. Tinubu is working to promote agriculture. 

    “I am happy that the Chairman of the Senate Committee oversighting me is also promoting Tinubu’s agenda. I pray to Almighty Allah to protect and guide us.”

    Mustapha said the empowerment was meant to make the beneficiaries, which included market women, farmers, artisans and trade associations become self-reliant.

    He said that apart from the physical empowerment materials, the beneficiaries had been trained and certificated on how to use the tools and carry out their trade as entrepreneurs.

    Mustapha said: “Today’s programme is just a symbolic one to flag off what we intend to do with most of our people we have trained.

    “This time around, we decided that it is not only about giving out sewing machines or giving out things to people and they will not value it.

    “We decided to put then through a series of programmes and trainings. In fact, we are missing out one vital aspect. Everywhere you go now, you’ll see solar streetlights.

    “We took time to train our indigenes who are interested in learning to maintain, to repair and to install solar panels.

     “The most fascinating part was when I came during a training exercise and I saw a lot of women who were part of it and I asked, ‘in our community here that I thought was conservative for women to climb roof and poles?’

    “I saw them in their overall, they are fully trained now on how to install, repair and maintain solar inverters. All of them are here too and they will get their working tools.

    “Most of the people you see here under the canopies are not just political spectators, these are carefully chosen beneficiaries who have gotten through training. We are not holding a political rally or jamboree here.”

    Apart from the prior entrepreneurial training and certification of the beneficiaries by the lawmaker, empowerment materials distributed during the event which was well attended by dignitaries and beneficiaries, included 250 deep freezers, tricycles, 100 live cows, 400 grinding machines, eight tractors for four local governments in Kwara Central, vehicles, gas powered oven with cylinders, 400 irrigation machines, full university scholarship for 200 students, various food stuffs, fertilizers and farm inputs and power transformers among others.

    Apart from Senator Barau and Senator Kyari, others dignitaries are the Deputy Senate Leader, Senator Lola Ashiru (Kwara South), Chief Whip of the Senate, Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Chairman Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other financial institutions, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Senator Ajibola Basiru, Chief Imam of Ilorin, Muhammadu Bashir, Emir of Ilorin, Sulu Gambari represented by Modibo Sulu Gambari and Senator Aminu Iyal Abass, among others.

  • Something big in the offing for Edo farmers

    Something big in the offing for Edo farmers

    • By John Mayaki

      Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo state is planning something big for Edo farmers in the weeks ahead – he has invited anyone who wants to act as an Observer to indicate interest – he is set to get our people back to farm in a manner never seen before, it was learnt.

      During a recent appearance on TVC’s Journalists’ Hangout, Governor Okpebholo laid out his post-100-day agenda which includes tackling insecurity head-on and Back to Farm Initiative – both would take center stage in the coming weeks, the governor said.

      According to governor Okpebholo, the coming weeks will mark a significant step in this direction, and we invite anyone interested to join as farm observers to witness our efforts in promoting farming and food security firsthand.

      He said food production is a key component of his five-point agenda, and that we must take decisive action to ensure our people have access to sufficient food supplies.

      His words, “Edo State is blessed with fertile land, which in some cases requires little to no fertilizer. However, due to climate change, we now need fertilizers to maintain productivity.

      “We will engage with the President and the Minister of Agriculture to seek support and ensure that our farmers have the necessary resources to succeed”, the governor said.

      Okpebholo’s leadership style is defined by his close engagement with key stakeholders, including the federal government. His relationship with President Tinubu is particularly noteworthy, as he proudly acknowledges the president’s consistent inquiries about the well-being of Edo people.

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      The governor narrated how Mr. President would always ask him about the well-being of Edo people whenever he sees him. “My friend, how is Edo State?” the president would often asks – an indication of his vested interest in the state’s development.

      For Governor Okpebholo, this is more than just a casual question; it is a reminder of his responsibility to ensure security, improve infrastructure, and enhance the livelihoods of Edo citizens. His willingness to collaborate at all levels of governance tells of his commitment to securing the best for his people.

      It also reassures us in Edo state that Mr. President cares about Edo people and about the leadership of Governor Okpebholo. According to the governor, “I am proud to align myself with him and honored to be considered his political son. To God be the glory.”

      If our farmlands are secured, our farmers will certainly return to their farms. This strategic approach by the governor will lead to a significant increase in farmland cultivation, resulting in improved agricultural productivity. Our farmers should be able to cultivate about 95% of Edo State’s arable land, contributing significantly to the decline in food prices.

    • Nigeria among Africa’s top agribusiness destination, says Agric Minister 

      Nigeria among Africa’s top agribusiness destination, says Agric Minister 

      The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari has said Nigeria is one of the most attractive agribusiness destinations in Africa, leveraging its vast consumer base of over 200 million people and access to a regional market exceeding 1.4 billion under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

      Kyari, who made this known Abuja during the Presidential Roundtable on Agriculture, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector into a globally competitive agribusiness hub, driving economic diversification and value creation.

      He emphasised that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is prioritizing agriculture beyond subsistence farming, positioning it as a structured economic ecosystem that empowers farmers and encourages private-sector-led growth.

      “The declaration of a state of emergency on agriculture by Mr. President was not just symbolic; it was a call to action. Food security is national security, and a well-structured agribusiness sector is key to economic stability and social prosperity,” Kyari stated.

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      He highlighted Nigeria’s extensive agricultural potential, including its vast arable land, favorable climate, and a youthful, entrepreneurial population. The government, he added, is actively working to remove investment barriers and foster an enabling environment for local and foreign investors.

      Kyari also outlined strategic collaborations with global development partners such as the African Development Bank, World Bank, Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Islamic Development Bank. These partnerships aim to finance large-scale agricultural projects and enhance food system resilience in response to global economic challenges and climate change.

      The President of the Nigeria Agribusiness Group (NABG), Arch Kabir Ibrahim, reaffirmed the private sector’s support for the government’s food security initiatives. He praised ongoing efforts in mechanization, all-season farming, and increased credit access through the capitalization of the Bank of Agriculture.

      “Our investments in mechanization and extension systems are already yielding results. The focus on youth engagement in agriculture will boost productivity, create wealth, and ensure food security,” Ibrahim said.

      Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Agribusiness, Kingsley Uzoma, delivered a keynote address, stressing the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving sustainable agricultural growth.

      In his welcome remarks, NABG’s Director General, Jafar Umar, described the roundtable as a critical step toward bridging policy gaps and strengthening agribusiness competitiveness.

      “Through structured engagements like this, we aim to align policies, enhance Nigeria’s agribusiness potential, and establish the country as a key player in regional food markets,” Umar stated.

      The roundtable concluded with a collective commitment from stakeholders, policymakers, and investors to implement actionable strategies that will enhance food security and position Nigeria as a dominant force in African agribusiness.

      Photo: Senior Programme Agriculture,Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Dr. Audu Grema (left); Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari; President, Nigeria Agribuiness Group (NABG), Architect Kabir Ibrahim and Director General NABG, Jafar Umar during a Presidential Roundtable on Agribuiness. Theme: Driving Agribusiness transformation: policies, partnerships and prosperity.

    • FAO boosts business skills of veterinary paraprofessionals through training

      FAO boosts business skills of veterinary paraprofessionals through training

      The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has concluded a four-day training programme aimed at enhancing the entrepreneurial and management skills of Veterinary Paraprofessionals (VPPs).

      Held from February 17-20, 2025, at the College of Agriculture and Animal Science (CAAS), Division of Agricultural Colleges, Ahmadu Bello University, Kaduna, the training targeted private-sector VPPs and mentors within the region. The initiative seeks to bridge the business skills gap and promote sustainable animal health services in communities.

      This programme builds on an earlier phase (2021-2023), which identified key challenges and barriers VPPs face in delivering services. Speaking on the initiative, Dr. Gani Enahoro, FAO Senior Animal Health Specialist, highlighted its significance in helping VPPs establish and sustain businesses focused on preventive healthcare services.

      “This training provides an opportunity to expand their knowledge and explore income-generating prospects within their profession,” he stated.

      Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation under the Empowering Veterinary Paraprofessional Entrepreneurs project, the programme features Continuing Professional Development (CPD) modules. These modules combine online learning with in-person workshops and hands-on field experience, equipping VPPs with practical business and management skills.

    • First Lady empowers over 200 Anambra farmers

      First Lady empowers over 200 Anambra farmers

      First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on Wednesday empowered over 200 persons in Anambra State under her Renewed Hope Agricultural Support Programme.

      The beneficiaries had undergone a two-day hands-on training in different scheme areas, including feed processing, drip irrigation installation, vegetable farming, and piggery.

      Each of the successful trainees was empowered with basic start-up tools that would enable them to successfully execute their chosen areas of study. 

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      Presenting the empowerment items at the Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia, on behalf of Senator Tinubu, the wife of Anambra State Governor, Mrs Nonye Soludo said the beneficiaries were selected through a transparent, random process.

      “The process took note of individual criteria for the training and empowerment programs while the selection criteria ensured equal representation of different women groups, youth organizations, political associations, and school clubs,” she said.

      Describing economic empowerment as a core objective of the Renewed Hope Initiative, through the initiative, Soludo’s wife explained that both women and youths across the six geopolitical zones have been empowered to support the economic reforms of the Tinubu administration. 

      “The Renewed Hope Agricultural Support Program is a medium-scale agro-support initiative that targets individuals across different age groups who are passionate about earning a living through agro-businesses,” she explained.

      Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, was optimistic that the initiative would produce results in the efforts to transform agriculture in the state.

      He assured that the beneficiaries would be monitored to ensure they appropriately deploy the empowerment tools and knowledge garnered.

      Commissioner for Women Affairs, Ify Obinabo, said the Soludo-led government through the program was applying the “don’t give me fish, teach me how to fish” principle, just as she commended Mrs Soludo for her exemplary leadership.

      Commissioner for Agriculture, Foster Ihejiofor, praised Tinubu’s wife for extending the initiative to the state, stressing that agriculture remained the most available asset to the economy of any society.

      Some beneficiaries, Queen Anigbogu, Raphael Onwughalu, Chinyere Udeozor and Hillary Obiajulu, said the empowerment tools would be of great benefit to their agricultural practices.

    • Katsina budgets N4b for ”Rumbun Sauki” consumer shops take off

      Katsina budgets N4b for ”Rumbun Sauki” consumer shops take off

      The Katsina State Government has announced a budgetary provision of N4b for the take off of the ”Rumbun Sauki” consumer shops project aimed at enhancing affordable food access to residents.  

      Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Economy, Engineer Yakubu Nuhu Danja, described it as pivotal initiative by the State Government aimed at enhancing affordable food access and alleviating the economic burdens of the masses. 

      He further described ”Rumbun Sauki’ as a consumer-oriented initiative involving an investment of N4b,designed to establish subsidized shops across the State.

       He said: ”These outlets will offer essential food items-Rice, Flour, Maize flour, and Spaghetti for a start at a 10% subsidy, making them more affordable for our residents. 

      Read Also: Lagos, private sector begin exchange programme for workers

      ” The programme is set to.commence operations with seven centres: three in Katsina, and two each in Daura and Funtua senatorial zones. 

      ”There is also packaging and accessibility to accommodate varying household needs and income levels.The subsidised 

      commodities will be available in multiple packaging sizes: 50 kg, 25 kg, 10 kg, 5 kg, 2 kg, and 1 kg. 

      ” This customised packaging system ensures that all citizens, regardless of income, can benefit from the programme”

      ”The programme targets specific groups, including State and LOcal Government

      employees, Local Education Authority staff and citizens aged 60 and above. 

      “To ensure transparency and efficiency, all eligible beneficiaries are required to register either online or physically through the service providers engaged by the State.”

      He further described the payment options as flexible, accommodating  the financial constraints some beneficiaries may face and that the beneficiaries can opt to purchase commodities on credit, with repayments deducted directly from their salaries or pensions at the end of the month. 

    • Abdulrazaq flags off Kwara agro input fair, recommits to food security

      Abdulrazaq flags off Kwara agro input fair, recommits to food security

      Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Monday launched the State Agro Inputs Fair for the year 2025 as part of his administration’s commitment to food security and agric sector transformation.

      The fair, which was organised by the Kwara Agricultural Development Project (KWADP), an agency under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, will last for five days.

      It was designed to provide farmers early access to high-quality inputs at affordable prices, training, mechanisation support, climate advisory, and market linkages.

      “This fair is not just about agro inputs. It is about innovation, knowledge sharing, and creating solutions that will drive agricultural productivity. It is a platform where farmers, researchers, and industry leaders connect, exchange ideas, and access cutting-edge solutions that will define the future of farming in Kwara,” the Governor said.

      “Kwara is not just participating in Nigeria’s agricultural transformation; it is leading the charge. The bar has been set, and there is no going back. The goal is clear: greater yields, lower food prices, and a thriving, self-sufficient agricultural economy.”

      The Governor was represented by Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi.

      Recalling how Kwara recorded the lowest food inflation rate for three consecutive months last year in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the Governor called the ranking a testament to his administration’s efforts, smart policies, and strategic investments.

      He lauded the local farmers for their relentless hard work that he said has been complementing the government to achieve food sufficiency in the state.

      At the event were the Chairman House Committee on Agriculture Hon Gideon Saba; House member representing Patigi Constituency, Hon Musa Kareem; Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Hon. Oloruntoyosi Thomas; Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu; Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Hon Aliyu Kora Sabi; Commissioner for House and Urban Development, Dr Segun Ogunsola; local government chairmen; Permanent Secretary Ministry of Agriculture Mrs Funke Sokoya; Managing Director, Kwara ADP, Dr Khadijat Ahmed; traditional rulers; and farmers associations.

      Thomas said the fair sought to equip the farmers with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to maximize productivity and profitability this season.

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      The government is committed to strengthening agriculture through mechanization, provision of extension services for farmers, distribution of inputs, provision of tractors to local governments, and support for dry-season farming, she added.

      “Beyond discounted fertilizers, seeds, and agrochemicals, this fair provides practical workshops on modern farming techniques, pest control, and post-harvest management,” she added.

      “Farmers will also benefit from NiMET’s climate advisory for informed decision-making, security insights to protect their investments, and opportunities like the outgrowers scheme for expanded market access.I urge all participants to take full advantage of this opportunity.”

      Sokoya, in her remarks, encouraged participants to explore available opportunities and apply the knowledge gained.

      Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Umar Mahmud Aboki, hailed the Governor for the initiative, saying the programme attests to the commitment of his administration to supporting farmers and advancing the agricultural sector in the state.

      Elerin of Adanla, Oba Dr David Oyerinola Adedunmoye, who spoke on behalf of other traditional rulers in attendance, described the fair as unique and timely.