Senator representing Kogi East senatorial district, Dr. Jibrin Isah Echocho has reiterated his commitment to further enhance agricultural productivity and alleviate farmers’ challenges.
The lawmaker made this known when he launched another round of empowerment for farmers in the Ankpa Federal Constituency, aimed at boosting food production and support local farmers’ livelihoods.
This program, coordinated by Hon. Ibro Akiti, a legislative aide to the senator, follows a similar fertilizer distribution three weeks ago.
Describing the empowerment initiative as novel, Hon Akiti said the strategic distribution of indispensable agricultural inputs was meticulously designed to bolster the capabilities of farmers throughout the entire planting and harvesting cycles.
He noted that items distributed included rice seed, to enhance crop yield and improve the quality of rice production in the region.
These were made known in a statement signed by Jibrin Ishaq Akagwu.
“We provided high-quality rice seeds to the farmers. This initiative aligns with our strategic plan to promote the cultivation of rice, a staple crop with substantial economic potential for the region.
“In line with our commitment to supporting agricultural productivity, Senator Echocho provided additional fertilizer to local farmers in Ankpa Federal Constituency. Fertilizer plays a crucial role in enhancing crop yields by enriching the soil and fostering optimal plant growth, thereby ensuring a more abundant harvest.
“Also, the Senator gave out knapsack sprayers to ensure efficient and effective application of pesticides and herbicides. We distributed knapsack sprayers to the farmers. These essential tools will assist them in managing pests and weeds, thereby reducing the risk of crop loss and enhancing overall farm productivity.
“To aid farmers in safeguarding their crops from damaging insects and diseases, pesticides were included in the package. This is essential for ensuring that farmers can maintain healthy crops and reduce losses brought on by pest infestations.
“To mitigate the adverse effects of weed infestation on crop yields, herbicides were also distributed. These chemicals will empower farmers to safeguard their crops from invasive plant competition, thereby optimizing agricultural productivity,” he said.
Hon Akiti added that as part of the empowerment for farmers, Senator Echocho also distributed water pump to enhance productivity.
“Water pumps have been strategically distributed to support irrigation, especially in regions experiencing insufficient rainfall or water resources. This crucial intervention augments the farmers’ capabilities, enabling them to optimize crop irrigation and maintain farm sustainability during periods of drought,” he added.
Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho, represented by Hon. Ibro Akiti, highlighted that the empowerment program aligns with his comprehensive vision to enhance agricultural practices in Kogi East.
Akinti said by equipping farmers with essential resources, the senator aims to strengthen the agricultural sector, which serves as the cornerstone of the local economy.
“His unwavering commitment lies in supporting farmers to bolster food security, generate employment opportunities, and mitigate poverty within the region.”
Hon. Akiti reiterated Senator Echocho’s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of democratic governance reach every farmer in Kogi East.
“Senator Echocho is dedicated to alleviating the difficulties our farmers face. By providing these agricultural inputs, we anticipate an increase in productivity and a reduction in the challenges farmers encounter during the cultivation and harvesting processes.
“The senator believes that equipping farmers with the appropriate tools will enable them to increase productivity, enhance their income levels, and contribute to the overall development of the state.
“The local farming community has responded positively to the empowerment program, expressing appreciation for the senator’s ongoing support. Numerous farmers perceive this initiative as a transformative endeavor, capable of not only enhancing crop yields but also alleviating the financial strain associated with procuring agricultural inputs.
“Senator Echocho has promised to In line with our commitment to supporting the agricultural sector and unlocking the economic potential of the Kogi Eastern region, we are pleased to announce the continuation of our efforts in empowering farmers. Recognizing the pivotal role farmers play as the backbone of our economy, we are dedicated to alleviating the challenges they face. This empowerment program represents a significant step towards ensuring our farmers have access to the necessary resources to thrive and contribute to the region’s economic growth. We remain committed to exploring additional avenues to provide comprehensive support to our esteemed farmers.
“As the senator maintains his commitment to improving the quality of life for his constituents, this most recent initiative serves as further evidence of his determination to advance agricultural productivity, bolster food security, and stimulate economic growth in Kogi East,” Akiti stated.
