Over 300 farmers and aspiring agripreneurs in Delta Central received essential agricultural starter packs on Friday at the grand finale of the two-day Agriculture and Food Security Training and Empowerment Programme facilitated by Senator Ede Dafinone.
The initiative, held at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Conference Centre, Effurun, aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and resources needed to launch and sustain successful agribusiness ventures.
The programme provided practical training in crop cultivation and fish farming, ensuring that beneficiaries not only gained theoretical knowledge but also received the necessary tools to implement what they had learned. Farmers who participated in the "Pest Resistance Vegetables: Tomatoes, Pepper, Maize, and Groundnuts" session on the first day were given high-yield seedlings, fertilizers, and pest control chemicals, while those trained in "Fishponds and Fingerlings (Juvenile) Fish Farming" on the second day received fingerlings, fish feed, and pond treatment kits.
Speaking at the event, Senator Dafinone reaffirmed his commitment to tackling food insecurity and unemployment by empowering individuals through agribusiness.
He emphasized that agriculture remains a vital pillar of economic growth and encouraged beneficiaries to apply their training effectively. "With these starter packs, you are not just farmers but entrepreneurs who will contribute to food production and economic development," he stated, assuring them of his continued support.
Senator Ede Dafinone presenting starters packs to one the beneficiary
The training, executed in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Abuja, featured experts who provided practical guidance on modern agricultural techniques. Resource persons took participants through soil management, irrigation, pest control, and market integration strategies for vegetable farming. Fish farming trainees learned about pond construction, water quality management, breeding techniques, and disease prevention.
Master Trainer Mr. Obasi Sunday led sessions on tomato and pepper production, while Mrs. Raheem Adejoke Arike educated participants on good agricultural practices for maize cultivation. Mrs. Olabisi Oladele emphasized groundnut disease control and soil fertility, and Mrs. T. Adeshola introduced innovative methods for high-yield okra farming. On fish farming day, aquaculture expert Ogechi Happiness Ewa trained participants on sustainable fishpond management and profit-maximization strategies.
For many beneficiaries, the starter packs symbolized a new beginning. Mrs. Ogechi Ewa, a Senior Agricultural Officer and trainer, praised the program’s impact, stating, "With the enthusiasm shown here, I foresee a transformation in agribusiness across Delta Central." Participants, such as Ogiechi Excellent, expressed excitement: "I now understand fish farming better. In a few months, I will be running my own business."
Olorogun Ejemudaro Salubi, Head of Projects for Senator Dafinone, announced plans for post-training monitoring to ensure beneficiaries effectively utilize their starter packs. "This initiative is not just about training but long-term impact. We will follow up to ensure you are progressing in your farming journey," she assured participants.
Victor Bajere, a first-time fish farmer, acknowledged the programme’s value: "I used to think agriculture was for subsistence, but now I see the business potential." Another participant, Odia Antonia Sheke, added, "With the starter pack, I can start immediately. I appreciate Senator Dafinone’s commitment to our future."
The empowerment programme reflects Senator Dafinone’s broader development agenda, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s national strategy to boost food production and employment. With the successful conclusion of the training, stakeholders anticipate a rise in agribusiness activities in Delta Central, potentially reducing youth unemployment and enhancing food security.
By investing in agricultural knowledge and providing tangible resources, Senator Dafinone has positioned Delta Central’s youths and women for economic independence, reinforcing agriculture as a viable path to prosperity.
