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By Emma Emeozor
Twenty Nigerians drawn from various states of the Federation are participating in a three-week programme at the Maejo University in Thailand.
Upon completion, the farmers who arrived in Thailand last week to begin the training will be given a graduation certificate and a transcript of their study records. In statement jointly signed by the president, Dr. Nwafor C. Lloyd and secretary Mr. Chris Mbazuigwe, the association said participants in the programme are expected to gain knowledge on vegetable and fruit farming for both local and export markets.
Another important aspect of the programme is learning how to turn agro-waste into fertile soil for urban commercial farming. Participants will also learn about soil preparation for potted flowers, commercial tomato and pepper growing, and fruit cultivation. Additionally, the program will cover how to make alternative soil for potted plants.
The focus of the program will be on land development, construction and preparation for commercial tree crops and fruit farming, such as coconut, mango, orange, and guava. Emphasis will also be placed on irrigation techniques for year-round production.
According to the group, this initiative aims to empower Nigerian farmers with the necessary skills to achieve self-sufficiency in producing essential food products, with a focus on items that currently require a significant amount of foreign exchange, such as rice, chicken, vegetables, and animal feed. This initiative aligns with the Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) of the Federal Government of Nigeria, the group said.
It explained that the project has received moderate sponsorship from the NIDO Thailand Chapter, in collaboration with Maejo University, which is Thailand’s oldest and most reputable agricultural institution, established in 1934.
It further said that the goal of the project was to revive the agricultural sector, which has experienced a significant decline in relevance. Furthermore, the program aims to tackle the issue of rising youth unemployment in Nigeria, as many young individuals lack the necessary skills to succeed upon graduation.
Maejo University’s President, Associate Professor Dr. Weerapon Thongma, Nigerian Ambassador to Thailand, Djebah, President of NIDO Thailand Chapter, Dr. Lloyd Nwafor and Mrs. Chinwe Ezirim, the Program Coordinator from Nigeria delivered speeches during the opening ceremony of the programme. They commended both NIDO Thailand and Maejo University for their efforts in supporting Nigerian Farmers to excel in their agricultural fields.
