From John Adams, Minna
The Country Director of One Acre Fund a Non Governmental International Agricultural Intervention Organisation in Nigeria, Mr Adetola Adegbite has said that the organization will distribute over six million tree seeds to 220,000 small holders farmers in Niger, Kwara and Nasarawa states during this year’s raining season.
This according to him will surpass the number of tree seeds distributed to this category of farmers in 2023 as part of the organization’s forestation programme in the region.
The country director disclosed this at an Empowerment Programme for Small Holder Farmers in Minna Niger State capital, saying that the mission of the organisation “remains clear,: to ensure last-mile access to quality inputs, to empower farmers with knowledge and resources, and to cultivate thriving agricultural communities that drive economic growth and food security”.
He stated further that “The 2024 Input Delivery Season promises to be even more transformative, with plans to distribute 6 million trees to 220,000 farmers in Niger, Nasarawa, and Kwara States.
“This expansion reflects One Acre Fund’s dedication to reaching underserved communities and promoting sustainable agricultural practices on a larger scale” Adegbite declared”.
In an address Niger State Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Musa Salihu Bawa Bosso, expressed appreciation for the impactful contributions of One Acre Fund in advancing agricultural development in the state and in the region.
The Commissioner highlighted the organization’s significant role in enhancing food production, promoting environmental conservation, and empowering rural communities across Niger State.
He then assured the organization that the state government will continue to support and partner with it towards achieving the administration’s agricultural agenda for the state.
Also speaking, the field Operations Officer of the organisation Mr Emmanuel Bamigboye said “last-mile” delivery holds immense importance in the context of agricultural development, particularly for Small Holder farmers who often face significant challenges in accessing quality inputs and resources.
Bamigboye added that “For farmers like those we serve here in Niger State and beyond, “last-mile” delivery means more than just convenience; it is a lifeline that empowers them to maximize their productivity and improve their livelihoods.
He added that by bringing inputs directly to farmers’ doorsteps and fields, the organisation is eliminating barriers that can hinder their ability to thrive.
Free seeds and other agricultural inputs were distributed to hundreds of farmers at the event to mark the commencement of the 2024 farming season.