NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Agriculture , Food Security

IWMI unveils strategy to boost water, agriculture innovation

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By Tosin Kolade

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) has introduced its 2024-2030 strategy to drive innovation in water management and agricultural practices in Nigeria.

This announcement was made at the sidelines of the Africa Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage in Abuja on Monday.

IWMI Director General, Dr Mark Smith, presented practical, science-based solutions to Africa’s pressing water challenges.

“The IWMI Strategy 2024-2030 outlines an ambitious agenda for research and innovation in water security.

“It tackles current and future water management challenges, aiming to advance Sustainable Development Goal 6 on water and sanitation.

“The strategy aligns with national and regional priorities and is backed by an action plan to boost partnerships, growth, and impact,” he said.

Smith noted that while Africa’s water challenges are vast, so too are the opportunities.

He emphasised the importance of focusing on practical, inclusive, and climate-smart solutions.

“At IWMI, we are working to restore watersheds, modernise irrigation, promote water reuse, and empower farmers with tools that enhance productivity and resilience,” he said.

Smith outlined four strategic pathways for agricultural transformation that align with the African Union’s vision: watershed restoration, improved irrigation system performance, water reuse, and farmer-led irrigation.

He listed examples of IWMI’s work, such as in Ethiopia’s Yeboa Watershed, where interventions like terracing and contour farming have greatly reduced soil erosion and improved groundwater recharge.

These efforts, he said, have expanded irrigable land fivefold, creating new agricultural and economic opportunities, particularly for young people.

“In Mali, IWMI collaborated with the Office du Niger to co-develop performance indicators for irrigation schemes.

“This data-driven approach has enabled targeted investments and smarter water management, leading to improved efficiency and increased yields.

“IWMI is also promoting the safe reuse of wastewater for agriculture, which reduces pressure on freshwater sources, improves soil fertility, and recovers valuable nutrients.

“Our work in promoting water reuse is not just about alleviating the strain on freshwater systems, but also enhancing agricultural sustainability and supporting a circular economy,” Smith noted.

Dr Funke Cofie, IWMI’s Africa Director for Research Impact, emphasised the institute’s broader commitment to sustainability and resilience.

“We generate knowledge and evidence-based solutions to improve water use, ranging from rain-fed systems to full irrigation.

“Our work focuses on environmental sustainability, climate adaptation, and preparing communities to manage risks like flooding”.

Cofie highlighted IWMI’s role in developing Nigeria’s flood early warning and anticipatory response system, known as the AWARE platform.

“Using satellite data, the platform helps predict flood events and supports timely, community-level action to mitigate impacts. This approach moves us from reactive disaster management to proactive planning

“We are here to catalyse change. Whether in the arid north or the south, we are committed to turning knowledge into tangible impact and delivering sustainable solutions across Nigeria,” she said.

She said that during the two-day conference, IWMI hosted five technical sessions on key themes such as digital innovations in water management, farmer-led irrigation, and the water-energy-food-environment nexus.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)  reports that the institute also launched new training tools for irrigated rice production in Africa.

With its new office and strategy now in place, IWMI is set to deepen its engagement in Nigeria, working closely with public institutions, research organisations, and local communities to address region-specific water challenges.

NAN also reports that IWMI has opened its new office at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan. (NAN)

Edited by Mark Longyen

Foreign

ECOWAS urges stronger ties to attract investment

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By Mark Longyen

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has called on member states to strengthen their cooperation through the ECOWAS Common Investment Market (ECIM) and attract foreign investment.

ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Mrs Massandje Toure-Litse, made this known at a meeting of the ECIM Council Technical Committee on Monday in Abuja.

Toure-Litse, represented by Dr Tony Elumelu, ECOWAS Director, Private Sector, explained that the meeting aimed to evaluate member states’ regional investment climate and share knowledge of their cross-border investment promotion efforts.

The commissioner urged member states to focus on churning out collective recommendations to the ECIM Council and strengthening the region’s competitiveness in continental and global investment landscapes.

According to her, the implementation of these initiatives lie with individual member states, adding that whatever they do to institutionalise the ECIM in their domain is crucial to its success.

The commissioner charged participants to jointly lay emphasis on showcasing and reviewing each member state’s investment climate policy reform and improvement measures, as well as experience-sharing in implementing the ECIM.

“This meeting is coming at a very propitious but challenging moment when the region is in transition from the exit of some of our member states, while trade and geopolitical tensions are increasingly reshaping the global investment landscape.

“This requires that we do a stock take to assess our track record, evaluate our strengths and take urgent steps to address the challenges that constrain our collective economic development.

“It also requires that we pool our collective strength as a region to navigate the complexities and disruptive dynamics of nascent economic protectionism,” she emphasised.

Toure-Litse said ECOWAS had taken steps to institutionalise ECIM structures, support member states’ alignment with the investment code, and promote coordination through the Investment Promotion Agencies of West African States (IPAWAS).

She said the distortion of rule-based multilateral trading system required member states to devise a creative approach to turn the tide into opportunities by deepening regional integration and fashioning a collective response.

 

“ECOWAS as a region is also in a jubilee, as the Community turns 50 on May 28, 2025. There is no doubt that the nature, direction and sources of new investment in the times ahead will be shaped by these global events.

“This milestone calls for a celebration, even as it presents a moment to pause and look inwards to reinvent our commitments to harnessing and deepening economic integration for development,” she added.

Dr Jumoke Oduwole, Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, said the ministry had harmonised its policies to align with the ECOWAS Investment Code and Policy, and the African Continental Free Trade Authority (AfCFTA).

She reaffirmed the country’s commitment to regional integration and cooperation, and underscored the importance of regional cooperation in achieving better and quality foreign direct investment into the subregion.

Oduwole, represented by the ministry’s Director, Investment Promotion, Mrs Gertrude Orji, highlighted Nigeria’s instrumental role in establishing the ECIM framework, developing the Investment Code and Policy Drafts, and supporting AfCFTA.

The minister, who formally declared the event opened, urged participants to focus on policy decisions that would attract seamless investment flows which would trigger subregional economic integration and development.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Foreign

UNDP partners FG to advance democratic governance in W-Africa

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By Fortune Abang

The UN Development Programme (UNDP) Nigeria, says it is committed to working with the Federal Government of Nigeria for effective implementation of Regional Partnership for Democracy (RPD) across West Africa.

Ms Elsie Attafuah, the UNDP Resident Representative, Nigeria, said this during a High-Level briefing with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, on RPD programme on Monday in Abuja.

Attafuah restated the UNDP’s support for effective implementation of the RPD, adding that the partnership was not only timely but necessary.

She said that RPD provided the platform for context-specific and African-led responses to the region’s democratic challenges as a homegrown initiative.

“UNDP will support the RDP programme implementation through provisions of technical assistance, strengthening of institutional capacity, research-informed policy development and monitoring and evaluation.

“This is a value-based commitment to strengthen our democratic culture, build civic trust and enhance delivery in public institutions. Our objective is to strengthen the governance systems.

 “We are hoping for business growth and to showcase this initiative, which is good, practical and people centered,” Attafuah said.

Earlier, Tuggar underscored the need to align national strategies with regional frameworks.

He said it would ensure sustainable governance outcomes and tackle challenges faced in the sub-region and Africa at large.

The minister described RDP as a flagship expression of Nigeria’s commitment to prioritising promotion of democratic values, constitutional order and Rule of Law in the region.

“This is essential in strengthening democratic institutions, promoting inclusive civic participation and evolution of civil society in Africa different from others.

“It will foster a resilient governance system that reflects current realities and bolster the in-house technical working group to achieve more.

“Democracy cannot thrive without truth; there is danger posed by misinformation, disinformation and unchecked influence of social media. When truth becomes blurred, democracy itself comes under threat.

“The institutions we often criticize for being weak are the very institutions we rely on to safeguard democracy. Strengthening democratic institutions is not optional but very essential,” Tuggar said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that RPD is a strategic initiative jointly established by the ministry and UNDP to foster democratic consolidation and strengthen governance systems across the West African sub-region.

UNDP is the UN’s lead agency on international development, working in over 170 countries and territories to end poverty, reduce inequalities and build resilient institutions. (NAN)

Edited by Chidi Opara

Economy/Business

BPP strengthens anti-corruption procurement reforms

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By Nana Musa

The Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr Adebowale Adedokun, says the bureau has revitalised inter-agency collaboration to tackle procurement corruption.

He stated this on Monday in Abuja at a national stakeholders’ interactive workshop with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on current procurement trends and reform roles.

Adedokun said the collaboration would enhance the integrity of Nigeria’s public procurement system.

“We’ve strengthened our partnerships with anti-corruption bodies like the EFCC and ICPC,” he said during the workshop.

“Other agencies include the Auditor-General’s Office, Attorney General’s Office, NEITI, CCB, and NFIU.

“This inter-agency effort aims to reinforce anti-corruption measures in public procurement and public finance management,” Adedokun noted.

He explained the reform also includes state governments and local authorities via partnerships with regulatory bodies and ALGON.

According to him, public procurement is central to governance and national economic growth.

“It represents a large share of public spending and is vital for achieving development targets.

“Yet, it remains highly prone to inefficiency, waste, and corruption.

“This highlights the need for ongoing reforms to promote transparency, competition, and alignment with global standards,” he said.

He emphasised the essential role CSOs play in governance and accountability.

“CSOs serve as watchdogs, ensuring procurement processes comply with rules and hold officials accountable.

“Your participation bridges transparency gaps and builds trust between government and citizens.

“CSO roles now include advocacy, capacity building, research, audits, community mobilisation, and policy engagement.

“They also use technical tools, build public trust, and support sustainable development,” Adedokun noted.

He reiterated that procurement significantly influences national development, infrastructure, and service delivery.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said procurement ensures democracy’s dividends reach the people.

He praised the BPP for consistently sharing procurement plans, tenders, and awards openly.

“I reaffirm the government’s zero tolerance for corruption.

“Public access to procurement data deters abuse and encourages oversight,” Idris added.

 He commended the BPP and promised continued ministerial support for public communication and engagement. (NAN)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Agriculture , Food Security

FG declares national emergency on food security

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By Tosin Kolade

President Bola Tinubu on Monday declared a national emergency on food security, urging expanded irrigation infrastructure and participatory water resource management nationwide.

Tinubu made the declaration while opening the 6th African Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage in Abuja.

He was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume.

He urged African nations to adopt innovative strategies in addressing the continent’s irrigation and water management challenges.

He described the conference theme, “Tackling Irrigation Development and Water Management Crisis in Africa”, as a clarion call to action for sustainable agriculture and economic resilience.

“Africa continues to face major challenges in unlocking its irrigation potential due to inadequate infrastructure, financial constraints, climate change, and governance issues.

“This conference offers a vital platform for us to collectively chart a path forward”.

Tinubu stated that the country had more than 3.1 million hectares of irrigable land located around key river basins such as the Niger and Benue.

In his remarks, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, said the government had completed several landmark initiatives under the Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria (TRIMING) project.

He announced that its successor, the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project, would address outstanding gaps while optimising the economic value of water resources to support food security.

“With the TRIMING project winding down, Nigeria is poised to begin implementation of the SPIN project in partnership with the World Bank.

“This initiative will consolidate on the successes of TRIMING and expand our irrigation potential,” Utsev said.

According to the minister, the TRIMING project, which spanned more than seven years, delivered notable achievements, including the completion of the Dadin-Kowa and Bakolori irrigation schemes and 90 per cent completion of the Middle Rima Valley irrigation project.

It also supported ongoing interventions in Ondo, Kwara, Benue, Kebbi, Edo, Adamawa, and Oyo States.

He also noted that the project established Water Users Associations (WUAs), farmer management centres, and supported market linkages for key value chains such as rice and tomato.

The minister further revealed that River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs) had developed more than 153,000 hectares of irrigable land and were being partially commercialised to attract private sector investment.

He also referenced the 2025 Flood Outlook and Risk Management Strategy, aimed at minimising flood-related impacts on agriculture.

“This conference is a platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and collective commitment to resolving Africa’s pressing irrigation and water management issues,” he added.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Didi Wilson-Jack, called for renewed commitment across all tiers of government to ensure national food security.

Former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, Mr Godknows Igali, underscored the urgency of strategic planning, particularly in the face of Nigeria’s growing population.

He stressed the importance of professional staffing and proper management of river basins, adding that sub-national governments must play an active role in water governance and food systems.

Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno, raised concerns over the shrinking farming seasons caused by climate change, warning that unpredictable rainfall patterns were creating uncertainty among farmers.

“Our fertile lands are turning to dust. Irrigation is now a necessity, not a luxury.

“Innovation must not be seen as a privilege of the few, we must empower women and youth who are at the frontline of agriculture,” Zulum said

He appealed to development partners to show greater responsiveness to the challenges of water access and rural farming in Africa.

President of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), Dr Marco Arcieri, described the conference as both timely and essential.

“This could be a turning point. We’ve celebrated big ideas and set tangible goals to confront the pressing challenges.

“We remain committed to supporting Africa as it faces population growth and climate stress,” Arcieri stated.

It may be recalled that he had earlier addressed participants at the Young Professionals’ Forum, a pre-conference event which gathered emerging leaders in irrigation and water management across Africa.

Arcieri emphasised the role of young professionals in driving sustainable solutions to the continent’s water challenges.

Mr Ibrahim Musa, who leads the African Regional Working Group, expressed optimism that the conference would lead to innovative approaches and actionable outcomes in addressing Africa’s unique irrigation development needs.

The conference continues in Abuja until April 17, with technical sessions, policy dialogues, and field visits to irrigation sites across Nigeria. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

General News

Stakeholders advocate inclusive opportunities for children with special needs

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By Joshua Olomu

Child right advocates, educators and caregivers have called for inclusive opportunities for children living with autism and other special needs to enable them  achieve their full potential and contribute to society.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the stakeholders made the call at a “Meet and Greet’ event on Friday night in Abuja.

It was an occasion to celebrate Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, a 15-year-old Nigerian  autistic artist who recently broke the Guinness World Record (GWR) for the Largest Painting, as the latest world’s largest art canvas by an individual.

Tagbo-Okeke had on April 2, unveiled the awe-inspiring canvas titled: “Impossibility is a Myth,” measuring 12,303 square meters, surpassing a previous 9,652 square meter record held by Emad Salehi.

The event, tagged “The Back-Story”, brought together representatives of  civil society groups, artistes, stakeholders in the arts and culture sector, and friends and family of the ace artist.

According to the stakeholders, while Tagbo-Okeke is being celebrated for his ingenuity and exceptional feat in arts, there is a need to reflect on the challenges children with special needs face in Nigeria.

Mohammad Sulaiman, President, Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA), said the association was offering equal opportunities for talented young artistes to thrive irrespective of their background.

He, however, lamented that both government and relevant institutions have not realised the place of the artists in nation building. Hence, they provide little or no support for them.

“I would want to say that this actually marks the beginning of a very eventful period in Nigeria’s art life.

However, what Nigeria has not done, unfortunately, is that it has not been deliberate about looking at arts.

“The government must be very deliberate especially in these unique areas that are beginning to make impact, like autistic ones, and put funds into those areas,” he said.

Helen Neete, an art instructor, said many Nigerians still have little or no knowledge of the Autism spectrum, and therefore have a polarised   view of autistic children.

“I believe that these individuals are specially  touched by God, and  I don’t think they have special needs.

“I think they have special abilities, and  each of them has his own form of expression; for some, it’s music, for others , it’s writing, and then those in visual art.

“One of the reasons why individuals on the spectrum are pushed aside is the lack of sensitisation and awareness in our society.

“Nobody goes into motherhood or parenthood thinking that they will have a child on the spectrum, and  many people don’t even ask if this happens to me. What do I do?

“So when you are just faced with this individual, and you don’t know what to do, so the first thing to do is that we as a society we have to educate ourselves,” she said.

Also, the mother of the young artist, Dr Sylvia Tagbo-Okeke, said children with special needs require individualised care, attention, and accommodations for them to feel included and motivated to manifest their God-given talents.

According to her, the journey of her son to stardom was that of resilience, determination, and sacrifices  by the family.

She therefore called on parents with autistic children not to give up ,adding that society, especially in the Nigerian setting, needs to be more empathetic and understanding with children who have special needs.

“For parents that have special needs children, I always tell them never to give up on their child or  lose hope.

“No matter how bad, if you keep at it, if you are patient, if you show love, at least they will be able to move from a point A point B  and to a point C.

“You will deal with stigmatisation, discrimination, and with people that do not have empathy because in this society, you have the good, the bad, and the ugly.

“For us as a family, we have met some good people as well that have encouraged us, and then we have met some very bad ones that have made us feel very bad.

“But what we decided is that, we are not going to dwell on those bad, because we have a motto  that autism is not a tragedy, Ignorance is”, she said.(NAN)

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

Economy/Business

WCA: Adeniyi calls for stronger Customs collaboration

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By Martha Agas

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, has called for stronger collaboration among customs administrations in West and Central Africa (WCA).

Adeniyi made this appeal during the Cultural Night-Out and Dinner at the fourth World Customs Organisation – WCA Donor Conference held on Thursday.

He said the WCA region must embrace greater cooperation, collaboration, and mutual understanding to achieve shared goals.

According to him, this united effort will boost economic growth across the region and enhance the welfare of its people.

He noted that African nations share cultural values, stating that their dances and traditions highlight the continent’s uniqueness and foster unity.

Adeniyi said Africa should focus more on what unites its people rather than on divisive issues.

“Those things that unite us are more important than those that separate us,” he emphasised.

He added, “It is vital that we now focus on the elements that bring us together.”

He warned against external influences that create division within the region, urging unity instead.

The NCS boss said the Cultural Night celebrates more than culture — “it promotes regional integration essential for customs, security, and economic cooperation,” he said.

He stressed the importance of collaboration, given that customs services face shared responsibilities in trade, security, and revenue generation.

Amadou Konate, Vice President of the WCO/WCA region, praised the cultural displays, noting they reflect the region’s shared values.

Konate expressed optimism that discussions at the conference would strengthen customs operations across WCA countries.

He said the gathering also allows for reflection on reforms and opportunities for deeper partnerships to address common challenges.

Konate noted that countries in the region are learning from Nigeria’s customs reforms and modernisation strategies.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference seeks to raise awareness of development partners’ initiatives in the region.

It also aims to coordinate regional and national projects, and secure funding for their implementation. (NAN)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Economy/Business

We’ve disbursed $50bn into Nigeria in last decade- Afreximbank

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By Okeoghene Akubuike

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) says it has disbursed 50 billion Dollars into various sectors of Nigeria in the last 10 years.

Prof. Benedict Oramah disclosed this at the Commissioning of the Afreximbank African Trade Centre (AATC) in Abuja on Thursday.

Oramah said the sectors included energy, infrastructural, manufacturing, healthcare, transport and financial services.
He added that in the last 10 years, the bank’s support to the Nigerian financial services industry amounted to 19 billion dollars.

“This has helped to deepen and expand the sector and elevated their impact on the local economy.”

According to Oramah, the bank is set to commission a 750 million dollar 500-bed African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) in Abuja in June.

He said the 500-bed medical centre was a quaternary medical facility built to avail top-class care to Africans in the vital areas of oncology, cardiology, and haematology.

Oramah said other interventions by the bank in Nigeria included the operationalisation of the African Quality Assurance Centre (AQAC) in Ogun State.
He said the centre was designed to ease quality infrastructure constraints of exporting agricultural and value-added goods into regional and international markets.

Oramah said similar projects were under development in the states of Imo and Kaduna.

He said in 2024, Nigeria was selected to host the Africa Energy Bank, which was established by Afreximbank and the African Petroleum Producer’s Organisation (APPO).

Oramah explained that the bank was also expected to address the financing constraints in the oil, gas and other energy sectors.

“The Energy Bank will position Nigeria as the continental hub for mobilising energy financing.”

He added that in Ogun, a Special Economic Zone was being developed by Afreximbank’s investee company, Arise Integrated Industrial Platform.

“This over 300 million dollar project is being developed to promote export manufacturing and similar projects are expected in Cross Rivers, Imo, Enugu and Kano States.”

Oramah said the bank’s financing support to Nigeria had also helped to boost the oil refining capacity to about 1.2 million barrels per day.

He added that it also helped to boost urea fertiliser production to 7.5 million tonnes per annum, up from under four million tonnes in 2019.

“We expect urea capacity to rise to about 11 million tonnes by 2027 when Dangote Petrochemical company opens the new lines under development.

“These are remarkable and are contributing significantly to Nigeria’s non-oil export revenues.”

He said Afreximbank was also investing in growing the country’s creative sector, through credit lines support, capacity-building initiatives and market access opportunities.

Oramah said recently the bank opened a dedicated 200 million facility to support the sector under an ongoing partnership with the Federal Ministry of Culture and Creative Industry.

He said the support had helped Nigeria to boost the export of its creative content to the rest of Africa and the world while boosting youth employment.

“These projects and interventions add to the significant investments committed by Afreximbank since its inception some 32 years ago.

“ I am most pleased to put on record that the relationship between the Bank and the Federal Government of Nigeria has been truly mutually beneficial and most cordial.

“Over the last three decades, successive governments have accorded unflinching support to Afreximbank by responding most positively to capital calls.

“Also creating a congenial environment for its smooth operations while providing the bank significant domestic policy support that helped to execute many of the development programmes in Nigeria.”(NAN)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Agriculture

Flour Mills Prize for Innovation transforming food production – Farmer

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By Rukayat Moisemhe

A farmer, Mr Samson Ogbole, says Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc. (FMN) Prize for Innovation (PFI)  is promoting innovativeness and sustainability in Nigeria’s agriculture sector.

Ogbole made the assertion on Thursday in Lagos in his report: “A Case Study of Soilless Farm”.

He said that innovation was the backbone of sustainable food systems, adding that for four years, the FMN- PFI had been championing groundbreaking agricultural solutions.

According to him, the PFI identifies and supports visionary entrepreneurs who are transforming food production, processing and distribution.

The farmer noted that since its inception, the competition had produced winners, each securing vital funding and mentorship to scale his agribusinesses and contribute to  food security.

“The journey from FMN-PFI finalist to an international agricultural innovator has been transformative for thousands of farmers across Nigeria.

“This multiplier effect exemplifies the vision behind the FMN Prize for Innovation  -supporting enterprises that can scale their impact far beyond their initial operations.

“As farmers, we face many challenges, but knowing that there is real support for innovation and growth from big and reliable organisations, such as FMN, gives us the confidence to keep pushing forward,” he said.

Ogbole said that his innovation – Soilless Farm Lab, was bridging knowledge gap in agritech by focusing on skill retooling and upskilling for young people.

He said that the farm had become a hub for learning and innovation, ensuring Nigerian youths would be well-positioned to lead the next wave of agricultural breakthroughs.

Modupe Thani, Head, Corporate Communications, FMN, described Ogbole story as one of the most inspiring  stories from PFI.

She noted that Ogbole was the first runner-up at the inaugural edition of FMN PFI, adding that he became a judge at the fourth edition, sharing his insights and experiences with a new generation of agri-preneurs.

Thani said that Ogbole’s journey from a promising innovator to an industry leader was a testament to the impact of FMN PFI in promoting excellence in agriculture.

She said that Ogbole’s Soilless Farm Lab employed advanced hydroponic and aeroponic systems that allowed for year-round cultivation of high-value crops without conventional soil.

According to her, the innovative approach conserves up to 95 per cent of water compared to traditional farming methods.

She added that it eliminated  the need for harmful pesticides and reduced carbon footprint associated with food production.

“This nutritional density has earned soilless farm products certification from several international food quality organisations and secured it premium positioning in high-end global markets.

“Beyond running a successful agribusiness, Samson is empowering the next generation of farmers. He actively trains thousands of young Nigerians, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in modern agriculture.

“So far, over 8,000 agricultural jobs have been directly created, 19,368 youths have been skilled in hydroponics, and 23,565 farmers have benefitted from training programmes,” she said.

The official said that by identifying and nurturing ventures such as Soilless Farm, FMN was helping to address fundamental challenges in the country’s agricultural sector, from seasonality constraints to quality consistency.

“The programme’s focus on scalable, technology-driven solutions aligns perfectly with global trends toward more efficient, sustainable food production systems,” she said.

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Environment

NEWMAP-EIB commends Ekiti’s N1.1bn fund pledge

142 total views today

By Akpan Glory

The Nigeria Climate Adaptation Erosion and Watershed Project, supported by the European Investment Bank (NEWMAP-EIB), has commended the Ekiti State Government for pledging N1.1 billion as its counterpart funding for the project’s implementation.

The National Project Coordinator of NEWMAP-EIB, Engr. Anda Ayuba, made the commendation in a statement on Friday following the team’s visit to the state.

The Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo, represented Gov. Biodun Oyebanji during the engagement.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the team was in the state to assess Ekiti’s readiness for project implementation and fund disbursement.

These are key requirements set by the European Investment Bank.

He expressed appreciation for the state’s financial commitment, but appealed for the full release of the pledged N1.1 billion to enable immediate commencement of project activities.

“All proposed sites in the state have met the selection criteria,” he confirmed.

Ayuba, however, raised concerns over the worsening condition of erosion-prone areas, particularly in Efon Alaaye Local Government Area and the Olorunda community.

Describing the situation as life-threatening, he recommended the urgent application of the Gully Rapid Action and Slope Stabilisation (GRASS) approach to prevent further degradation, pending the implementation of long-term solutions.

In his response, Adebayo thanked the NEWMAP-EIB team for their visit and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to environmental protection.

He confirmed that the N1.1 billion allocation had been approved and would be released at the appropriate time.

He also praised him for his proactive leadership and dedication to ensuring effective implementation of the project across participating states.

Adebayo noted that the NEWMAP-EIB project aligns with two pillars of Governor Oyebanji’s “Shared Prosperity” agenda of Infrastructure, Industrialisation and Good Governance.

He added that the governor remains committed to delivering democratic dividends and fostering sustainable development for the people of Ekiti state.

Also speaking, the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Mr Tunde Balogun, commended Gov. Oyebanji for demonstrating strong political will by allocating over a billion naira to the project.

Earlier, the State Project Coordinator for NEWMAP-EIB, Dr Akinyugha Akinyemi, gave an overview of the initiative.

He noted that Ekiti had already benefited greatly from the first phase of NEWMAP, which covered nine local government areas, impacted 2,000 rural residents, and achieved 100 per cent completion of civil works.

Key sites included health centres, the Ogbomu culvert, and the Ajalogun Bridge in Ikere-Ekiti, a major route connecting Ekiti to Kogi State.

According to Akinyemi, the current phase of the NEWMAP-EIB project will focus on areas including Efon and Efon Alaaye local government aea, among others. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

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