The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Foundation Ltd/Gte has launched a training initiative for 5,000 vulnerable farmers across Borno, Yobe, and Bauchi States, to improve productivity and enhance food security in the region.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Potiskum, the Managing Director of NNPC Foundation, Mrs Emmanuella Arukwe, represented by Dr Bala David, Executive Director of Programme Development, said the programme reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to national development beyond the energy sector.
Arukwe explained that the training forms part of the Foundation’s broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s socio-economic development, particularly through agriculture.
She noted that over 11,000 farmers across five geopolitical zones have already benefited from similar empowerment programmes.
“Our objective is clear: to equip vulnerable farmers, especially women and youth, with practical skills and market knowledge to transition from subsistence farming to sustainable livelihoods,” she said.
The Foundation’s North-East phase will train participants in climate-smart agriculture, soil management, post-harvest handling, financial literacy, cooperative formation, and the use of digital tools for market access.
Arukwe highlighted that the sessions are designed to be interactive and practical, featuring expert lectures, hands-on demonstrations, group discussions, and clinic sessions.
Translators fluent in Hausa and other local languages will also be engaged to ensure inclusivity and wider participation.
She urged the farmers to take ownership of the programme, stressing that its success would be measured through increased yields, stronger cooperatives, and improved livelihoods across the participating states.
The managing director commended government agencies, traditional leaders, facilitators, and development partners for their collaboration and support in ensuring the programme’s success.
She emphasised that strong partnerships remain essential for achieving food security and building community resilience.
“This initiative is a clear demonstration of how corporate social responsibility can directly impact rural development and empower communities to thrive sustainably,” Arukwe added.
Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the training, describing it as transformative for their agricultural practices.
Malam Iliya Adamu, one of the participants, thanked Allah and praised the Foundation for its commitment to empowering rural farmers.
Similarly, Mrs Kuceli Bata, who spoke on behalf of the women participants, said the training had opened their eyes to modern and eco-friendly farming techniques.
“Many of us did not know how to apply new methods on our farms, but now we have learnt how to use resources such as Moringa leaf to improve crop yield,” she said.
Source: News Diary
Image Credit: Independent News Reporters
