The Federal Government has officially launched an agricultural initiative named “ProjectEarnFromTheSoil” in Bayelsa State, aimed at empowering small-holder farmers, fisherfolk, agribusinesses, and coastal communities across the South-South region of Nigeria.
The initiative was flagged off on Saturday, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s vision to cultivate 500,000 hectares of land, promote year-round farming, and encourage the consumption of locally grown foods.
Focus on Bayelsa: Hon. Gift Johnbull, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement for the South-South, emphasized Bayelsa’s potential for large-scale rice production. He drew parallels with the Netherlands, noting that Bayelsa’s land could be similarly productive.
Empowerment: The initiative aims to integrate women into the agricultural sector through training and access to resources, enhancing food security and boosting the local economy.
Economic Impact: The project is expected to directly benefit 500,000 small-holder farmers, fisherfolk, agribusinesses, and coastal communities in the South-South region.
Support for Women: The initiative includes the domestication of the National Women Economic Empowerment Policy (WEE Policy) and the launch of “ProjectEarnFromTheSoil,” which will focus on training and strategic support for women in agriculture.
Cooperatives Involvement: Over 10 cooperatives across six agricultural value chains have been registered to participate in the project for free. Johnbull encouraged all stakeholders to engage passionately and dedicate themselves to the cause.
Johnbull highlighted the significance of Bayelsa’s agricultural potential, stating, “Bayelsa’s capacity for rice production is a gold mine waiting to be fully realised. With the right support, we can transform Bayelsa into a rice production powerhouse, ensuring food security and boosting our economy.”
This initiative is set to harness Bayelsa’s land, resources, and people to create a thriving and equitable future for the state and the South-South region.
