Food and Agriculture
Gov Ododo Flags Off 19.55km Obajana-Uro-Aku Rural Road Project
By Abdulrahman Obaje
Kogi state Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo flags off construction of the 19.55km Obajana-Uro-Aku rural farm road, marking a significant milestone in Kogi State’s quest for enhanced rural infrastructure and agricultural growth. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
Governor Ododo while performing the ceremony today October 15th, 2024 at Obajana Uro Junction, eulogies President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support to the people of Kogi State
According to him, the construction of the road would alleviate the suffering of the farmers in Kogi state.
In his words, “It is indeed with all sense of fulfillment that I stand here today to officially Flag Off the construction of about 19.55 Obajana —Uro—Aku road under Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing project called RAAMP,” he said.
He further noted that his Government is out to employ all legitimate means to improve the lives of the people of Kogi State.
The flagship project, undertaken by the Kogi State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (Kogi-RAAMP) and the State Ministry of Rural and Energy Development, demonstrates Governor Ododo’s unwavering commitment to rural-focused governance.
The Obajana-Uro-Aku rural road project is expected to bring numerous benefits to the state, including increased accessibility and easier movement of people, goods, and services between rural communities and urban centers.
It will also boost Economic Opportunities, improve market access for rural producers, and stimulate economic growth and development in the axis.
Governor Ododo’s administration has consistently prioritized rural development, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping the state’s economic future.
This project is proof of his dedication to providing infrastructure that benefits all citizens, regardless of geographical location.
The state, in collaboration with the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), a World Bank supportive program, is expected to yield sustainable results that will alleviate the people of Kogi State on many fronts.
The Kogi State Commissioner for Rural and Energy Development, Hon. Engr Mohammed Abdulmutalib, while speaking, appreciated Gov. Ahmed Usman Ododo for his commitment to the welfare of the people of the State.
According to him, the project would open up access to market, healthcare, and education for thousands of residents, which would enable them to engage more fully in the State’s economic activities. Adding that the state is set to Flag Off five more rural roads collectively spanning 65.25 Km across the state.
With Governor Ododo at the helm, Kogi State is poised for transformative growth, and this project is just the beginning of more unprecedented achievement.
Author Profile
Latest entries
Food and AgricultureJuly 18, 2025Food Security: NGO Calls On Governments To Support Farmers With Subsidised Input
NewsJuly 18, 2025Kogi Government Clarifies Arrest of Defamation Suspect, Insists On Due Process
SportsJuly 18, 2025Afriskaut Elite Super League: Jordan FA Edges Closer to Trophy with 2-1 Win over FC Bako
EducationJuly 17, 2025Karimi Education Foundation Announces Bursary Award to 3, 000 Students
Food and Agriculture
Food Security: NGO Calls On Governments To Support Farmers With Subsidised Input
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Zero Hunger Nigeria, has called on governments at all levels to support farmers with subsidised input to boost food production in the country. adsbygoogle || []).push({});
The National Coordinator of the NGO, Dr Tunde Arosanyin, made the call in an interview with Our Correspondent.
Arosanyin said that the Federal Government’s efforts to support farmers through subsidies were being undermined by the lack of synergy from state and local governments.
According to him, the Federal Government has already made efforts to support farmers, such as the recent distribution of 4,000 tractors, but more needs to be done to address the challenges facing farmers.
“State and local governments, which receive substantial allocations of resources, should prioritise supporting farmers with subsidised input, including tools, fertilisers, herbicides, and insecticides.
“The recent flood in some parts of the country has led to significant losses for farmers.
“So, the Federal Government’s decision to release grains from the Strategic Grain Reserves (SGR) helped cushion the effect of the crisis,” he said.
The national coordinator, however, said that the gesture by the Federal Government had a negative impact on farmers who had to sell their produce below the cost of production.
Arosanyin urged farmers and the media to put pressure on state and local governments to support farmers with input subsidies.
He also called for the employment of more agricultural extension officers to provide training and capacity a build wing programmes for farmers.
“Additionally, state and local governments should clear extensive farmland for farmers and provide them with tractorised systems,” he said.
The expert also proposed a blueprint for reducing insecurity through agriculture by identifying and supporting 1,000 farmers per local government area each year.
According to him, this initiative will not only improve food security but also create employment, reduce restiveness, and improve economic development, thereby reducing insecurity by 70 per cent.
“By supporting farmers with subsidised input and implementing robust agricultural programmes, state and local governments can play a critical role in boosting food production and reducing insecurity in Nigeria,” he said.
Author Profile
Latest entries
Food and AgricultureJuly 18, 2025Food Security: NGO Calls On Governments To Support Farmers With Subsidised InputNewsJuly 18, 2025Kogi Government Clarifies Arrest of Defamation Suspect, Insists On Due ProcessSportsJuly 18, 2025Afriskaut Elite Super League: Jordan FA Edges Closer to Trophy with 2-1 Win over FC BakoEducationJuly 17, 2025Karimi Education Foundation Announces Bursary Award to 3, 000 Students
Food and Agriculture
Nigeria’s First Lady Flags off Distribution of Farm Inputs To Farmers In Kogi
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has Flagg-off distribution of farm inputs and equipment to farmers in Kogi state to boost food security in the state. adsbygoogle || []).push({});
Oluremi Tinubu while performing the ceremony in Lokoja on Tuesday, said that it is under her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) for Agricultural Support Programme.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the First Lady, who was represented by the Wife of the Kogi State Governor, Hajia Sefinat Ododo, said the programme is aligned with the federal government’s broader strategy to strengthen agriculture, promote food security, and drive economic growth.
She said the programme targets women and youth farmers while promoting sustainable food systems.
The agricultural support programme comprises four components: the Women Agricultural Support Programme, the Youth Agricultural Support Programme, the Every Home a Garden Initiative, and the Young Farmers Club. These programmes are designed to equip beneficiaries with the tools, inputs, and knowledge needed to thrive in agricultural ventures.
Mrs Ododo, speaking in her own capacity, expressed appreciation to the First Lady for her commitment to uplifting rural communities and vulnerable groups.
She noted that the initiative would significantly increase food production and economic activity in Kogi State.
She said the programme targets women, youth, and students and provides essential inputs such as agrochemicals, farm equipment, and financial support to enhance productivity.
According to her, this is part of the state’s effort to contribute meaningfully to national food security.
She expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to empower these groups and emphasized that the programme was designed to plant hope and build a brighter future for the community.
She also announced that her office plans to launch a digital portal to collect data on women agricultural students in tertiary institutions, as part of a wider commitment to empowering women and ensuring inclusivity in development efforts.
Mrs Ododo congratulated the beneficiaries and urged them to use the items responsibly, stating that the support represents an investment in their farms, futures, and the overall food security of the community and the country.
Also speaking at the event, the Kogi State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Timothy Ojomah, commended the initiative and noted that Governor Ahmed Ododo had just distributed assorted fertilizers to farmers to enhance wet season farming.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to ensuring food security for all residents.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Education, Mr Wemi Jones, who was represented by the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Barikisu Omolayo, described the initiative as a clear validation of the importance of education in national development.
He said involving students in farming lays the foundation for innovation, responsibility, and future food security. He assured that the Ministry of Education would continue to support programmes that integrate education, empowerment, and productivity.
The Desk Officer for the RHI Agricultural Support Programme in Kogi, Mr Abdulkabir Otaru, provided further details of the distribution.
He said 33 women would receive multipurpose processing machines, while 25 women poultry entrepreneurs would be supported with broiler production inputs including 100-day-old chicks, poultry feeds, and wheelbarrows.
In addition, 36 youths would benefit from support packages for maize and cassava farming, comprising improved seeds, fertilizers, herbicides, and knapsack sprayers.
He added that 25 home gardeners would receive vegetable seeds, coconut seedlings, organic fertilizers, and herbicides under the Every Home a Garden Initiative.
He also revealed that under the Young Farmers Club, 150 students from 15 secondary schools across the state would be supported with maize and cassava inputs and
Author Profile
Latest entries
Food and AgricultureJuly 18, 2025Food Security: NGO Calls On Governments To Support Farmers With Subsidised InputNewsJuly 18, 2025Kogi Government Clarifies Arrest of Defamation Suspect, Insists On Due ProcessSportsJuly 18, 2025Afriskaut Elite Super League: Jordan FA Edges Closer to Trophy with 2-1 Win over FC BakoEducationJuly 17, 2025Karimi Education Foundation Announces Bursary Award to 3, 000 Students
Food and Agriculture
Neglecting Livestock Farming In The Past Was a Mistake That Should Not Be Repeated – President Tinubu
The Federal Government has said neglecting livestock farming in the past was a mistake that should not be repeated if we must food-secured and attain national security.
This is contained in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President, Information & Strategy. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
The statement read, ‘ President Bola Tinubu, speaking in Abuja, reassured the public that past mistakes, such as neglecting livestock farming and relying on dairy imports, will be avoided. He pledged a robust framework to stimulate prosperity in the sector, instilling confidence in his commitment.
The President, who opened a two-day Consultative Workshop on Livestock Reforms on Thursday October 24thm 2024 at the State House Conference Centre, pledged government support in revamping and repositioning the sector to create employment and attract foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
“The livestock sector is critical, and we will give all it needs to bring value to our country. Stakeholders, I assure you that you will not regret the collaboration and investment in this sector.
“It is about time that we do it right. A country of over 200 million people and cannot serve our children one pint of milk in a classroom per day? That is not right.
“We didn’t see the investment opportunities. We didn’t see the economy of livestock in the past. Now that we have seen it, we must work together to restart the sector,’’ he said.
President Tinubu commended the Presidential Livestock Reform Implementation Committee, led by the Co-Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, and the Secretary, Prof Muhammed Yahaya Kuta, for their commitment to repositioning the livestock sector.
“Our shared mission is clear: we aim to transform the livestock sector from its current subsistence model into a thriving, commercialised industry, an industry that significantly contributes to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product and provides decent jobs and sustainable livelihoods for our growing population.
“The potential is immense: With 563 million chickens, 58 million cattle, 124 million goats, 60 million sheep, and 16 million pigs, Nigeria is the leading livestock producer in West Africa. Yet, despite this vast resource, we face stark realities.
“Our annual production of animal-source foods, like milk at 0.7 billion litres, meat at 1.48 million Tonnes and eggs at 0.69 million metric Tonnes, falls far short of our needs. Our per capita consumption levels—8.7 litres of milk, 9 kg of meat, 3.5kg or 45 eggs per year—are troublingly low compared to global averages. These are 44 litres of milk, 19 kg of meat and between 160 and 180 eggs per year.
“What is more worrisome to me is the average milk yield by cow breeds managed by our pastoralists: it is a mere 0.5 to 1.5 litres per day, compared to a global average of 6.6 litres per day. We can do much better!
“The long-term neglect of the livestock sector has weighed heavily on the country’s import bills, with milk and dairy products accounting for $1.2-1.5 billion.
“Yes, we can do it. We can bring prosperity to our people. We can feed our children. From grass, we can achieve grace. We can contribute so much to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and provide decent jobs,’’ the President noted.
President Tinubu also thanked the Nigerian Governors Forum, NGF, chaired by the Governor of Kwara State, Abdurrahman Abdulrazaq, for supporting the reform of animal farming in the country.
“Your Excellency, Chairman of the NGF, Abdulrazaq, thank you for assuring C-of-Os and other instruments from other areas. I also know that the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, with the vast land in his domain in Niger State, will accommodate many investors.
“We didn’t see the cold room investment. We didn’t see that opportunity before now. But it is coming. We are going to give it all it takes.
“The opportunity is there; when I inaugurated the Presidential Livestock Reform Committee, I didn’t see the path clearly until they started working. Thank you, Prof Attahiru Jega,’’ the President stated.
President Tinubu also acknowledged Abdullahi Ganduje, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), for nurturing the idea of reforming the livestock stock, Nuhu Ribadu, national security Adviser, and Nyesom Wike, FCT minister, for their commitment to realising the dream.
“We can create a vivid picture of the future we want to see; it’s the future of our country. The economic opportunities for our children, and with that effort, we can say God bless Nigeria,’’ he stated.
The Chairman of NGF, Abdulrahman Abdulrazak, assured of the “100 per cent buy-in of the sub-national to make the reform a success because it is not just food security, but national security.’’
Abdulrazaq thanked President Tinubu for leading the initiative by chairing the implementation committee, regretting that past efforts in the same direction were reduced to files in the Ministries of Agriculture in states and local councils due to lack of political will.
He said each state should create a segment for livestock farming and extend the value chain to meat and dairy production.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, thanked the President for his “bold action, exemplary leadership and unparalleled commitment to livestock reform.’’
Kyari assured of working with the Ministry of Livestock Development to realise the president’s vision to diversify the economy and empower more Nigerians.’
Author Profile
Latest entries
Food and AgricultureJuly 18, 2025Food Security: NGO Calls On Governments To Support Farmers With Subsidised InputNewsJuly 18, 2025Kogi Government Clarifies Arrest of Defamation Suspect, Insists On Due ProcessSportsJuly 18, 2025Afriskaut Elite Super League: Jordan FA Edges Closer to Trophy with 2-1 Win over FC BakoEducationJuly 17, 2025Karimi Education Foundation Announces Bursary Award to 3, 000 Students