The Bayelsa State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to food security by pledging support for trainees of its Soilless Farming Scheme.
Governor Douye Diri made this known on Wednesday when he welcomed 180 beneficiaries of the scheme at the Executive Council Chambers in Government House, Yenagoa. The farmers, trained in Ogun State through a partnership between the Bayelsa government and MasterCard, are expected to drive innovative agricultural practices within the state.
Emphasizing the importance of food production, Governor Diri stated that his administration aims not only to feed Bayelsa residents but to contribute to food supply beyond the state. He urged the trainees to put their knowledge to good use, become self-reliant, and train others in the modern farming technique.
A special committee, including the Commissioners for Agriculture, Finance, and Youth Development, has been set up to oversee the successful implementation of the scheme. The governor also commended MasterCard and the Commissioner for Youth Development for facilitating the initiative.
“You are our next generation of technical farmers. If you succeed, we will expand the training to accommodate more youths. However, failure to deliver will hinder future opportunities for others,” Governor Diri stated.
Expressing appreciation, Commissioner for Youth Development Alfred Kemepado praised the governor for approving the training and noted that the initiative aligns with the state’s food security agenda.
One of the trainees, Tari Adamawa, highlighted that the training focused on maximizing available space for farming. She assured that the beneficiaries were ready to apply their skills to boost food production in Bayelsa.
