The Agricultural Media Resource and Extension Centre (AMREC) of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) have partnered with the National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC) to educate 150 farmers in Imala, Ogun State on the nuances of effective production of high quality maize and cowpea seeds.
The Director of AMREC, Prof Carolyn Afolami, said at the main event that the aim of this project is to teach the farmers how to produce high quality foods in order to boost their agricultural production and income. Knowing how useful and versatile the maize crop is, she hopes that the project would go a long way to promote self-sufficiency and eventually, help alleviate — if not alienate — poverty.
The Omala of Imala Community, Oba Moses Olabode, spoke on the behalf of his people, effusing thanks and expressing their positive anticipation towards the results of this scheme. He recounted the successes of past projects, such as the SoyaBean Production and Popularization, Farm Family Health and Cassava: Adding value for Africa Project, amongst others. He also echoed the hopes of Prof Afolami in seeking a change towards the lifestyle of the farmers.
In addition, the Ogun State government has stated its desire to invest in the production of these crops and willingness to grant loans ranging from N50,000 to N200,000 to deserving farmers across the state.
