By Uche Olachi…
In a key initiative to improve food security and increase agricultural productivity in Imo State, the government has launched the 2024 distribution of agricultural inputs and resources to farmers, through the FADAMA program. The event took place in Owerri at the FADAMA Coordination Office, led by the Hon. Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Chief Cosmos Maduba. In his speech, Maduba acknowledged the presence of various stakeholders and highlighted the crucial role of the Fadama programme in promoting food safety across the state’s farming community.
The Fadama programme, managed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, is part of the NG-CARES projecta COVID-19 resilience effort aimed at assisting vulnerable farmers throughout Nigeria. As a participant in this initiative, known locally as ImoCares, Imo State has worked to mobilize resources to counter the negative effects of the pandemic on its agricultural sector. The current administration has taken significant measures, by allocating funds for essential input purchases and assets, reaffirming its dedication to agriculture and food security.
Farmers in Imo State will receive various inputs and resources through this initiative, including fertilizers, poultry and fish feeds, agrochemicals, as well as equipment such as fufu pounders, multi-purpose grinders, rice mills, and outboard engines. These provisions are designed to boost productivity and ensure a reliable food supply, addressing the ongoing concern of food security in Nigeria. By supplying these vital tools, the program aims to empower farmers and facilitate better market access, ultimately enhancing agricultural output in the region.
During the ceremony, Hon. Maduba reiterated the government’s steadfast support for farmers to maintain a dependable food supply chain. In addition to offering diverse inputs, the Fadama program will also prioritize the development of rural infrastructure, including constructing farm roads, establishing market facilities, and providing sanitation solutions. Moreover, the government intends to deliver extension services and training to improve farmers’ skills, enabling them to remain competitive and efficient in their agricultural endeavors.
The positive results from the previous disbursement in December 2023 set a hopeful benchmark for this round of distributions. Commissioner Maduba mentioned that the upcoming assistance is expected to significantly enhance food security in the state, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring a secure food future for all citizens. He urged farmers to use the inputs wisely and refrain from selling them, as such actions could jeopardize the shared goal of increased productivity and food availability.
In appreciation, Dr. Charles Enyia, the coordinator of Imo State FADAMA Area 2, thanked Governor Hope Uzodimma for his ongoing support to farmers in Imo State. He stressed the significance of the governments efforts to enhance farmers’ welfare and productivity while advocating for sustained commitment to these agricultural assistance programs.
Dr. Ayo, president of the farmers association Imo State chapter encouraged farmers to fully utilize the resources provided, as this would help elevate agricultural practices and ultimately improve food security in the state.
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