Kogi state government boost agriculture with improved cassava stems and farmer friendly policies

Kogi State Government Boosts Agriculture with Improved Cassava Stems and Farmer-Friendly Policies.

The Kogi State Government has further demonstrated its commitment to supporting the agricultural sector in the state through various farmer-friendly initiatives. This was highlighted by Engineer Kasim James, the Director of Engineering in the Kogi State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, who also serves as the Chairman of the Tractorisation Committee.

Speaking during the offloading of improved variety of cassava stems known as TMX and TNA in Lokoja, Engineer Kasim James lauded the efforts of the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, in bolstering agriculture in the state. He described the governor’s approach as “farmer-friendly” and a “moral booster” for the state’s farmers.

Engineer Kasim highlighted that the partnership between the Kogi State Government and the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to provide the improved cassava stems is a welcome development. He noted that this initiative will help to cushion the hardship faced by farmers in acquiring quality planting materials, ultimately leading to a bumper harvest this cropping season.

Furthermore, the Director recounted that over 7,000 beneficiaries of the state government’s agricultural scheme are enjoying various provisions, including free tractors with fueling, seedlings, and insecticides, among other incentives. He urged the beneficiaries to reciprocate the government’s huge investment in agriculture to boost food production and expressed the government’s commitment to accommodate more interested farmers.

Echoing the Director’s sentiments, Mr. Obaje, an agricultural expert, highlighted the potential of the improved variety of cassava stems to address food insecurity. He stated that the scientifically certified stems are capable of producing a harvest within 6-9 months.

Mr. Obaje emphasized the importance of agriculture as a stronghold in enhancing the nation’s economy and called on all levels of government to create an enabling environment for private sector participation in the agricultural sector.

The Kogi State Government’s strategic focus on supporting the agricultural sector, through initiatives such as the provision of improved cassava stems and farmer-friendly policies, is a step in the right direction towards boosting food production and strengthening the state’s economy.