Senator (Dr) Victor C. Umeh, representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, has trained and empowered 520 constituents with modern agricultural equipment and inputs as part of a comprehensive initiative to boost food security and combat poverty in the region.
The senator, who currently serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Population and NIMC, was accompanied by the former Labour Party presidential candidate, His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi, during the intervention.
As part of the program, beneficiaries received a range of agricultural resources, including fertilizers, fish pond tents, piglets, palm seedlings, poultry feed, day-old chicks, cassava stems, maize seedlings, fingerlings, fish feed, and financial support.
In his address, Senator Umeh emphasized that the aim of the training is to address food insecurity and empower citizens through sustainable agricultural practices.
“This intervention is a continuation of the effort to feed our nation, just like in 1979 when Operation Feed the Nation was launched. Agriculture remains the key to eradicating poverty,” he said.
Senator Umeh revealed that this is the first phase of the training, with a second batch expected before the end of the year.
“Instead of always saying ‘give me a job,’ think of agriculture as a means to become self-employed,” he urged.
Highlighting the quality of the agricultural inputs provided, he noted:
“The corn we’re giving out is hybrid and will produce a high yield. The cassava stems are also high-quality hybrids. These were sourced from the Federal College of Agriculture, Ishiagu, Ebonyi State, which is renowned for its agricultural research and innovation.”
He added that the fishery tents provided eliminate the need for digging trenches or constructing traditional fish ponds.
“The palm seedlings are a premium variety that don’t grow too tall. In just three years, you’ll start harvesting,” he explained.
One of the beneficiaries, Ikegwuonu Ifenna, praised the senator for the initiative. “This project is a significant step towards reducing unemployment and ensuring food security. Our dedicated, hardworking, innovative, and selfless senator Distinguished Senator Victor Umeh, OHAMADIKE, deserves our gratitude. May the good Lord continue to guide and protect you as you serve our people,” she said.
