In a determined effort to enhance food security and boost agricultural productivity in Delta Central, Senator Ede Dafinone has launched a two-day Agriculture and Food Security Training and Empowerment Programme at the PTI Conference Centre, Effurun, in Uvwie, Delta State.
The initiative, organized in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, is aimed to equip farmers with modern techniques to improve crop yield and sustainability.
Speaking on behalf of the senator, Olorogun Ejemudiaro Salubi, Head of Projects in the senator’s office, reiterated that agriculture remains a key driver of economic growth. She stated that the programme is part of the senator’s constituency capital projects, designed to empower women and youth with essential farming skills to enhance food production and self-sufficiency.
The first day of the training, themed “Pest Resistance Vegetables: Tomatoes, Pepper, Maize, and Groundnuts,” focused on equipping farmers with techniques to combat pest infestations and maximize productivity. Master Trainers from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture provided in-depth lectures on best agricultural practices, seed preparation, irrigation techniques, and effective pest management strategies.
One of the key resource persons, Mr. Obasi Sunday, led an insightful session on “Production Protocol of Tomato, Hot Pepper, and Sweet Pepper,” educating farmers on how to select quality seeds, prepare the soil, and control pests effectively. He emphasized the importance of early pest detection, stating, “Many farmers suffer heavy losses due to preventable infestations. With the right pest-resistant varieties and improved management techniques, they can increase their harvests and profits.”
Similarly, Mrs. T. Adeshola, an expert in vegetable farming, conducted a detailed session on okra cultivation, highlighting best practices such as proper spacing, organic fertilizers, and improved disease-resistant seeds. She noted that farmers who adopt modern techniques could see a significant improvement in their yields and urged them to embrace new methods.
Another critical session was led by Mrs. Olabisi Oladele, who discussed “Profitable Groundnut Production and Major Pest Challenges.” She educated farmers on soil fertility management, pest identification, and disease prevention strategies. “With the right knowledge and application, groundnut farming can be highly lucrative. Farmers must pay attention to soil health and use sustainable pest control methods,” she advised.
Also speaking at the training, Mrs. Raheem Adejoke Arike taught participants about Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) for Maize Production. She stressed the importance of soil testing, crop rotation, and the use of organic manure. According to her, “Farmers often overlook soil health, yet it is the foundation of a successful harvest. With proper soil management, maize farmers can double their productivity.”
Beyond improving crop yields, the programme also introduced farmers to agribusiness strategies. Ogechi Happiness Ewa delivered a session on the SHEP (Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment & Promotion) Approach, which helps farmers transition from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture. She explained that market-oriented farming would help farmers maximize their earnings and contribute to food security.
Additionally, Gloria Owunari introduced the Cooperative Business School (CBS), urging farmers to form cooperatives to access financial support and government interventions. “By working together, farmers can access bigger markets, secure funding, and enjoy the benefits of group empowerment,” she explained.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the programme, describing it as a game-changer in their farming practices. Mrs. Janet Akpofure from Udu Local Government Area stated, “I have learned so much about tomato and pepper farming. Before now, pests destroyed most of my crops, but with these new techniques, I am confident my yield will increase.” Mr. Moses Edewor from Ethiope West added, “I never knew that proper soil management could impact my groundnut production this much. This training has been an eye-opener.”
The programme will continue tomorrow on its second day, focusing on fish farming and aquaculture, where participants will be trained on fishpond management, fingerling rearing, and sustainable aquaculture practices. Mr. Augustine Oviri from Ughelli North, who runs a small fish farm, expressed his eagerness for the session, stating, “I have been struggling with high mortality rates among my fingerlings. I hope to learn proper management techniques to improve my fish farm.”
With starter packs set to be distributed tomorrow to all beneficiaries—including high-yield seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and essential farming tools—farmers were urged to use the items strictly for farming purposes. Senator Dafinone’s commitment to agricultural empowerment remains steadfast, as the initiative is expected to significantly enhance food production, improve livelihoods, and drive economic growth in Delta Central.
