Kwara State government Boosts Agricultural Sector with Training for Farmers, Extension Agents
Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to advancing agricultural productivity, creating jobs, and eradicating hunger during the closing ceremony of a training program for 100 extension agents and farmers.
The program focused on small ruminant production and crop residue processing and was organized by Synergy Impact Consultant Limited at the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanization (NCAM) in Idofian.
The Governor’s message was delivered by the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, who emphasized the alignment of the training with the state’s goal of enhancing farmers’ productivity and improving their livelihoods.
Mrs. Thomas assured the participants that the government remains committed to initiatives that empower farmers, equipping them with the skills and tools necessary to increase productivity and profitability. She also highlighted the administration’s significant investment in human capital development as part of the renewed hope agenda for food security in the state. She encouraged the trainees to apply the knowledge gained to create positive outcomes for the future.
Dr. Chidozie Onyedikachi Anyiro, the World Bank Co-Task Team Leader for the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), expressed continued support for the Kwara State Government in enhancing livestock productivity and commercializing value chains in the state. He pointed out that the training aligns with L-PRES’s objectives to address constraints in livestock productivity and promote ranching, which could help reduce farmers/herders’ conflicts. Dr. Anyiro emphasized that pasture development presents a valuable business opportunity that is often overlooked, and he praised the training for addressing key issues in the sector.
The program was well-received by the participants, with Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye, the L-PRES Project Coordinator, stressing that the training underscores the administration’s commitment to ensuring food and nutrition security for both humans and animals. In his remarks, Alhaji AbdulRasaq Jiddah, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, encouraged the participants to put their new skills into practice. The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to the trainees, marking the successful completion of the program.
