The Bayelsa State Government has committed to improving food security by providing its Soilless Farming Scheme recipients with the tools they need to spearhead agricultural innovation in the state.

Governor Douye Diri made this pledge in an address to 180 trainees at Government House’s Executive Council Chambers in Yenagoa.

Thanks to a collaboration between MasterCard and the Bayelsa State Government, the recipients received specialised training in Ogun State, making them the area’s first soilless farmers.

Governor Diri underlined that his administration prioritises food security, emphasising that the ultimate objective is to produce enough food for neighbouring states and feed Bayelsans.  

He urged the trainees to apply their skills effectively, become self-reliant, and extend their knowledge to others.

“We recognise the importance of agriculture in securing our future. Our vision is to make Bayelsa a hub for food production, and you are at the centre of this transformation,” he stated.

The governor praised MasterCard for facilitating the training and commended Alfred Kemepado, the Commissioner for Youth Development, for spearheading the initiative. 

He further assured that the government would continue to invest in such programs, provided the trainees deliver results.

“If you perform well, we will expand this initiative to train even more people. But further investment will not be justified if you fail,” he warned.

Kemepado said the scheme would significantly improve Bayelsa’s agricultural environment, expressing gratitude for the governor’s commitment. 

One of the trainees, Tari Adamawa, emphasised the effectiveness of soilless farming by pointing out that it yields high yields with fewer land requirements.

The trainees are now prepared to usher in a new era of contemporary, sustainable agriculture with the support of the state government, revolutionising food production in Bayelsa and beyond.

Source: AgroNigeria