A Regional Conference on Agribusiness Calls fp Inclusive Empowerment on Agriculture

Follow

( 0 Followers )

X

Follow

E-mail : *

Follow Unfollow

The different tiers of government in Nigeria have been enjoined to empower the people through agricultural and vocational skills.

This is said to be necessary to drive development in the country. A statement by Omotola Ashaolu,
Press Secretary in the state ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development indicated that this was the takeaway from the North Central Zonal Conference of Women and Youths in Agric Business and Entrepreneurs held recently in Ilorin, Kwara State.

The Kwara State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, enumerated the commitment of the present administration in the state to inclusive policies that prioritise women, youths, and persons with disabilities. Mrs. Thomas confirmed that by revealing that 50% of all State agricultural programmes and initiatives are reserved for these groups.

She said, “Women and youths are central to every programme designed by the State because we recognise their critical role in economic transformation.”

Her colleague in ministry of Environment and Forestry, Hajia Nafisat Buge, encouraged more individuals to view agriculture as a profitable and noble venture. “Agriculture is neither dirty nor something to be ashamed of; it is a dignified and rewarding business that contributes significantly to our economy,” she stated, urging participants to embrace opportunities within the sector.

The Director General of the Nigeria Agric Business for Women and Youth Farmers Entrepreneurs (NABG) Mr. Jafar Abubakar, emphasised the transformative potentials of agric business in fostering independence and economic growth. He highlighted the importance of integrating technology into agriculture to maximize output and enhance efficiency. “Women, who make up half of our population, already contribute significantly to Nigeria’s GDP. Through agriculture, combined with technology and innovative business practices, they can achieve even greater heights,” he said.

He, therefore, commended the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for its youth-inclusive programmes and policies. He stressed that investing in agric business would not only reduce unemployment but also drive food security and economic transformation across Nigeria.

A key moment of the conference was the presentation by Mr. Abdulafeez Alao, a participant from Kwara State, who showcased his innovative product, “Eedu-Ramoni.” This eco-friendly briquette, made from farm waste, serves as a sustainable alternative to wood-based charcoal, reducing deforestation and promoting a cleaner environment. Mr. Alao’s innovation received accolades for its potential to balance environmental conservation with economic benefits.

The event was concluded with the recognition of outstanding entrepreneurs excelling in various agric business ventures, inspiring participants to explore opportunities within the sector’s value chains.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development remains steadfast in its mission to promote agric business as a driver of sustainable development, empowering women and youths, and fostering economic transformation across Kwara State and beyond.