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FMLD, Christian Aid launch youth, women poultry transformation initiative

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FMLD, Christian Aid launch youth, women poultry transformation initiative

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has reaffirmed its commitment to youth and women empowerment in the livestock sector under the National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy (NL-GAS), as it strengthens collaboration with Christian Aid on a large-scale poultry transformation initiative.

Speaking while receiving a delegation from Christian Aid on Tuesday, 16th December 2025, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, noted that the partnership aligns squarely with the Ministry’s mandate to drive food security, job creation, climate-smart agriculture, and inclusive economic growth.

Dr. Akujobi emphasised that the Ministry is keen on fostering an enabling environment for programmes that deliver measurable outcomes, particularly for women and young people. She encouraged stakeholders to move beyond theory to practical, evidence-based implementation that supports productivity, climate resilience, innovation, and inclusivity in the livestock sector.

“Together, we can build a livestock sector that is productive, climate-smart, youth-driven, women-inclusive, and capable of contributing meaningfully to national food security, employment creation, and economic diversification,” the Permanent Secretary said.

She also stressed the importance of learning from past interventions, urging the programme designers to incorporate clear risk-mitigation measures, strong monitoring and evaluation frameworks, and transparent governance structures to avoid repeating previous shortcomings.

Speaking on the need for deliberate farmer profiling, credible data systems, and intentional targeting of genuine livestock producers, Dr. Akujobi further highlighted critical success factors for sustainability, including access to affordable feed, veterinary and extension services, disease management, waste management, and backward integration strategies to reduce production costs.

Presenting the proposed initiative, the Economic and Gender Justice Lead at Christian Aid, Munachi Ugochukwu, explained that the programme, known as the Sustainable Entrepreneurship-Led Poultry Transformation (SEPT) initiative, is a five-year intervention supported by the Mastercard Foundation.

The programme is designed to address youth unemployment and gender inequality by unlocking opportunities across the poultry value chain. According to Ugochukwu, the initiative targets over 220,000 youth and women participants across seven states, with a strong focus on underserved and marginalised communities.

At least 80 per cent of beneficiaries will be women, while persons with disabilities and internally displaced persons are also deliberately included. He further outlined key programme components, including access to scalable markets, skills development, entrepreneurship training, affordable finance at single-digit interest rates, climate-smart production practices, gender and social inclusion, and ecosystem-level policy engagement.

The initiative is being implemented through a consortium of partners, including Sahel Consulting, Animal Care, Produce Africa, and the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), in collaboration with financial institutions such as FCMB and the Bank of Agriculture.

Members of the Ministry’s management team welcomed the initiative and offered technical guidance, raising questions around beneficiary selection, geographic focus, training partnerships, veterinary and animal health services, biosecurity, waste management, insurance coverage and risk mitigation.

Further discussions highlighted the importance of financial literacy, the graduation trajectory from small-scale to medium-scale enterprises, and the metrics that will be used to measure job creation, productivity gains and income growth for women and young people.

The meeting ended with assurances of collaboration and policy alignment.

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FMYD Launches ECMS to Go Paperless by 2025

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FMYD Launches ECMS to Go Paperless by 2025

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD) has officially launched its Enterprise Content Management System (ECMS), marking a key step in the Federal Government’s plan to move the civil service to paperless and digital operations. The launch took place in Abuja and follows the directive of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDA’s) to fully adopt paperless work processes by 31st December 2025.

In his keynote address, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, said the ECMS was deployed in partnership with Galaxy Backbone Limited and is designed to improve efficiency, transparency, record management and service delivery across the Ministry.

Olawande described the ECMS as a transformational tool that goes beyond technology. He said, “This launch is not just about deploying software; it represents a fundamental shift in our work culture, moving from manual processes to seamless digital workflows will accelerate decision-making and strengthen accountability in the delivery of youth-focused programmes.”

The Minister was represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Maryam Keshinro, who stressed that staff members are central to the success of the transition. She urged workers to embrace the ECMS as a tool that will reduce clerical workload and allow greater creativity in programme design, monitoring and youth engagement.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, described the ECMS launch as a major milestone in public service reform. She noted that adopting the system would improve efficiency and professionalism across the civil service, adding that “a paperless civil service is central to building a modern, responsive and results-driven public sector.”

Walson-Jack commended the Ministry for embracing the reform and positioning itself as a model for digital transformation in government. She said the ECMS is expected to cut operating costs, remove delays linked to physical files, support environmentally sustainable practices and improve service delivery to Nigerian youth.

She further explained that the initiative supports Pillar 5 of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (2021–2025) and also aligns with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on reforming public institutions and improving outcomes for citizens.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Galaxy Backbone Limited, Professor Ibrahim Adeyanju, represented by Hon. Olusegun Olulade, said the Ministry’s onboarding onto the One Government Cloud (One Gov) Platform is a major step in the digital transformation journey. He added that such systems are vital for productivity, effectiveness and public trust.

He commended the Ministry’s leadership for embracing innovation and reaffirmed Galaxy Backbone’s commitment to continued technical support and collaboration to build a responsive, inclusive and future-ready public service for Nigeria today

ICPC receives Dangote’s petition against NMDPRA CEO Farouk Ahmed

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ICPC receives Dangote’s petition against NMDPRA CEO Farouk Ahmed

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed that it received a formal petition from Alhaji Aliko Dangote against the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, the ICPC said, “The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) writes to confirm that it received a formal petition today Tuesday 16th December, 2025 from Alhaji Aliko Dangote through his lawyer. The petition is against the CEO of the NMDPRA, Alhaji Farouk Ahmed.” The commission added that “the petition will be duly investigated,” according to the spokesperson, John Okor Odey.

The petition was submitted by DR. O.J. ONOJA, SAN & Associates, legal practitioners to Dangote, and is dated December 16, 2025. The law firm described Dangote as “a Nigerian Citizen who has made significant contribution to the economy of Nigeria not just as a businessman but a consistent high tax payer.”

According to the petition, Engr. Farouk Ahmed was appointed as CEO of the NMDPRA in September 2021 by the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR. It also stated that before his appointment, he served with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, now Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL), and held positions including Managing Director of PPMC and Executive Secretary of PPPRA.

The petition accused Ahmed of “gross abuse of office contrary to the extant provisions of the Code of Conduct for public officers,” alleging corruption and unlawful spending of public funds “running into Millions of Dollars.” It further claimed that he spent “over $7 Million of public funds for the education of his four children in different schools at Switzerland for a period of six years upfront.”

The children named in the petition are Faisal Farouk, Farouk Jr., Ashraf Farouk, and Farhana Farouk. The schools listed include Montreux School, Aiglon College, Institut Le Rosey, and La Garenne International School, with each child reportedly enrolled for six years.

The petition also alleged that Ahmed “is using the instrumentality of his office as the Chief Executive Officer of the NMDPRA to embezzle and divert public funds for self-gains and pursuit of private interest to the detriment of the Nigerian people,” adding that these actions had “orchestrated uproar and protests by different groups and reported in the media.”

It further argued that Ahmed’s lifetime earnings from public service could not justify the alleged expenditure, stating that “the totality of his earnings over the years is nothing close to the sum of 7 Million USD diverted from the public coffers.” The petition claimed he “has corruptly enriched himself with tax payers money meant for public consumption.”

Copies of online publications were attached to the petition as Annexures 1 and 2. The lawyers said the allegations amount to “gross acts of corrupt practices” which the ICPC is empowered to investigate under Section 19 of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act.

Quoting the law, the petition cited Section 19, which states: “Any public officer who uses his office or position to gratify or confer any corrupt or unfair advantage upon himself or any relation or associate of the public officer or any other public officer shall be guilty of an offence and shall on conviction be liable to imprisonment for five (5) years without option of fine.”

The petition also referenced Ehindero v. F.R.N (2018), where the Supreme Court held that “any public officer who uses his office to gratify or confer corrupt unfair advantage upon himself or any relation or associate officer or any other public officer shall be guilty of an offence.”

It further cited Kalu v. FRN (2014), where the Court of Appeal held that “abuse of office by a public officer is also prohibited by paragraph 9 of the Fifth Schedule to the Constitution dealing with Code of Conduct for Public Officers.” Additional cases mentioned include Lawan v. F.R.N (2024) and Shema v. FRN (2016).

The lawyers called on the ICPC to investigate and prosecute Ahmed “if found wanting,” stating that Dangote “shall be on ground to proffer evidence in proof of this allegation.” They urged the commission to act to ensure justice and public accountability nationwide.

PTAD, Nigerian Airways Retirees Discuss Pension Onboarding Limits

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PTAD, Nigerian Airways Retirees Discuss Pension Onboarding Limits

The Executive Secretary of the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD), Tolulope Odunaiya, on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, met with representatives of the Association of Airways Retired Workers of Nigeria (AARWN) to address pension concerns affecting retirees of the defunct Nigerian Airways.

The meeting focused on the proposed onboarding of Nigerian Airways pensioners onto the pension payroll. In attendance were the Chairman of AARWN, Mr. Onuh Stephen, and Mr. Ahmed Sulu Gambari, who spoke on behalf of the retired workers.

Responding to the issues raised, Odunaiya acknowledged the challenges faced by the pensioners and expressed empathy with the affected retirees. She reaffirmed PTAD’s commitment to the welfare and dignity of pensioners under the Defined Benefit Scheme, saying the Directorate remains attentive to concerns raised.

However, the Executive Secretary clarified the limits of PTAD’s authority. She said the Directorate operates strictly within its statutory mandate and “does not possess the authority to verify or onboard pensioners without formal directives from the appropriate authorities.”

She further explained that, due to statutory limitations on onboarding new pensioners, it is advisable for the association to continue engagement with relevant authorities to secure approval for onboarding eligible members onto the pension payroll. She urged patience while engagements with authorities continue ongoing.

Edo Govt Disburses N50m RHI Grant to 250 Elderly Persons

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Edo Govt Disburses N50m RHI Grant to 250 Elderly Persons

The Edo State Government, through the Office of the First Lady, has implemented the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) with the disbursement of fifty million Naira (N50,000,000) to 250 elderly persons across the state. The disbursement took place at the New Festival Hall of the Government House in Benin City and formed part of activities under the Social Investment Programme themed “Finding Joy in Old Age.”

Speaking on behalf of the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady and State Coordinator of RHI, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, said the scheme was designed to support 250 elderly individuals with N200,000 cash grants each. She explained that the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of senior citizens in Edo State and ensuring they live with dignity.

At the event, Senator Tinubu commended the RHIESS initiative for promoting dignified ageing and social inclusion. She noted that the empowerment programme covers the 36 states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), while also extending to selected groups aimed at improving welfare nationwide.

In her words, “This Scheme is to support 250 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 years and above in all the 36 states of the Federation and the veterans from the Defense and Police Officers Wives Association (POWA). These 9,500 selected beneficiaries will receive N200,000 each. The total sum to be disbursed is one billion, nine hundred million Naira. As approved by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative. Each state of the Federation will receive the sum of fifteen million Naira, including the FCT and the POA.”

Senator Tinubu further stated that since the inception of President Bola Tinubu’s administration in 2023, the Renewed Hope Initiative has annually celebrated senior citizens every December. She said the celebration is meant to acknowledge the contributions of elderly citizens to nation building and to appreciate them through structured support under the scheme. She added that prioritising the welfare of the elderly is important to ensure they live in comfort, good health, and dignity.

The First Lady of Nigeria also advised the elderlies to find joy in their old age by remaining healthy and active, while nurturing both body and mind. She encouraged them to engage in charitable works, find purpose within their communities, and embrace compassion and care.

In her goodwill message, the wife of the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Barrister Nimata Umar Ikhilor, said caring for elderlies reflects the level of progress within a society. She described elderly persons as valued, respected, and a blessing to their communities and beyond.

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Special Duties, Mrs. Betty Okonoboh, appreciated the attendees and beneficiaries of the third edition of RHIESS. She commended the efforts of the First Lady of Nigeria and the Office of the Edo State First Lady for organising the programme to honour elderly citizens.

The event also featured health talks delivered by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Andrew Iyamu, and the Managing Director of the Edo State Specialist Hospital, Dr. Anthonia Njoku. Medical health outreaches were conducted during the programme.

A major highlight of the event was the disbursement of cash grants to beneficiaries, including Mrs. Agnes Ahamentalor, Mr. George Abulimen, and Mrs. Pius Victoria, among others. The beneficiaries expressed gratitude to Senator Tinubu and Mrs. Anani. They said the gesture would improve their wellbeing and daily living.

SMILE2025 empowers 1000 women with skills, ₦50,000 grants

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SMILE2025 empowers 1000 women with skills, ₦50,000 grants

The SMILE2025 Widows and Orphans Outreach Programme has launched a new empowerment initiative aimed at equipping widows and young single parents with practical job-creation skills and startup support to help them achieve financial independence.

Under the programme, 1,000 women and girls will receive vocational training, with a major focus on liquid soap production, alongside a ₦50,000 business seed grant to enable them to start or expand small-scale enterprises.

Organisers said the initiative was designed to provide beneficiaries with skills that are affordable, in demand and capable of generating steady income within their communities. “We are focused on simple skills that people can start with little capital and grow over time,” the organisers said.

In addition to liquid soap making, participants will be trained in other income-generating activities, including snacks production, zobo drinks processing, fruits trading and point-of-sale (POS) business operations.

The programme also includes mentorship, financial literacy education and savings advocacy to help beneficiaries manage and grow their businesses sustainably. According to the organisers, “the goal of the SMILE2025 initiative is to empower 1,000 women with both skills and financial support, thereby strengthening families and contributing to broader community development.”

They noted that empowering widows and young single mothers often has a direct impact on children’s welfare, education and overall household stability. “When women are empowered, the benefits extend to their children and the wider community,” they said.

As part of the outreach, free medical services will also be provided to beneficiaries. These include blood pressure checks, glucose and diabetes tests, eye examinations and the distribution of free drugs. Medical professionals and volunteers are expected to support the health component of the programme.

The organisers appealed to individuals, organisations and corporate bodies to support the initiative by donating ₦50,000 to sponsor a woman, sponsoring groups of beneficiaries, providing training equipment, medical consumables or services such as healthcare, mentorship and guidance.

RHI Flags Off Elderly Support Scheme for 250 Beneficiaries in Kaduna

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RHI Flags Off Elderly Support Scheme for 250 Beneficiaries in Kaduna

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, has flagged off the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative under the Social Investment Programme for the Elderly Support Scheme in Kaduna State, with the theme “Finding Joy in Old Age.”

The initiative benefited two hundred and fifty elderly persons drawn from the 23 Local Government Areas of Kaduna State. Each beneficiary received two hundred thousand naira, amounting to a total disbursement of fifty million naira. The financial support is aimed at cushioning the effects of economic hardship and improving the overall wellbeing of elderly citizens across the state.

The programme commenced with the accreditation of beneficiaries and featured free medical check-ups to address health concerns and promote healthy living among senior citizens. The exercise formed part of the broader social protection drive of the Renewed Hope Initiative to ensure dignity and care for older persons.

The event opened with prayers led by the Senior Special Assistant on Religious Matters to Governor Uba Sani, Mallam Abdulrahman Zakariya Uthman, and Reverend Jangado. They prayed for divine guidance, peace, and success for the current administration and for Nigeria as a whole.

Speaking on behalf of the First Lady of Nigeria, the Wife of the Kaduna State Governor, Her Excellency Hajiya Hafsat Uba Sani, who also serves as State Coordinator RHI, through the Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Mrs. Patience Fakia, urged beneficiaries to use the support wisely. She advised them to apply the funds to strengthen their health and overall wellbeing.

She further encouraged the beneficiaries to continue to pray for the success of the administrations of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Governor Uba Sani, CON. She noted that the Renewed Hope Initiative “underscores the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and social protection for the elderly.”

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Yonana Markus Barde, described the initiative as “timely and impactful.” He urged beneficiaries to remain hopeful and to share testimonies of the positive impact the intervention has made in their lives.

Goodwill messages were delivered by the Kaduna State Head of Service, Mrs. Jummai Bako, the Commissioner for Health, Hon. Umma K Ahmed, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Barrister Gloria Ibrahim, and the District Head of Kawo, Alhaji Jibril Mohammed, Dan Makwayon Zazzau. They emphasized the need for society to treat the elderly with value, compassion, and empathy, while reaffirming the Kaduna State Government’s commitment to the inclusion, comfort, and dignity of senior citizens.

Beneficiaries, in separate interviews, expressed joy and gratitude for the support, offering prayers for the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, and the Kaduna State Government.

Dignitaries at the event included the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Social Investment and others.

Rivers Govt, Renewed Hope Empower 500 Elderly with N200,000 Each

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Rivers Govt, Renewed Hope Empower 500 Elderly with N200,000 Each

The Renewed Hope Initiative in collaboration with the Rivers State Government on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, empowered 500 elderly citizens in Rivers State with financial support of N200,000 each under the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS).

The empowerment programme was part of activities marking the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme, a social investment policy introduced by the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

The event, which took place at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Port Harcourt, was held under the theme, “Finding Joy in Old Age.” Nigeria’s First Lady and wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in her remarks, said the gesture, which has become an annual tradition since 2023, is a mark of gratitude in recognition of the invaluable contributions of senior citizens to nation building.

Represented by the wife of the Rivers State Governor and State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative, Lady Valerie Fubara, the First Lady explained that the scheme is designed to “support two hundred and fifty (250) vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 and above in all the 36 states of the federation, the federal capital territory, and veterans from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), totalling Nine thousand five hundred selected beneficiaries across the nation.”

She encouraged the beneficiaries to stay engaged and active, saying, “I encourage you to continue playing your part by staying healthy and active, nurture both your body and mind through regular exercise and meaningful engagement.”

In her own remarks, the wife of the Rivers State Governor and State Coordinator, Lady Valerie Fubara, stated that the Rivers State Government, through the magnanimity of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, increased the number of beneficiaries in the state from 250 to 500.

Lady Fubara reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving the standard of living and promoting the welfare of the elderly in Rivers State.

Also speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme (RIVCHPP), Dr Vetty Agala, said the state government, through the Health4AllRivers Initiative and in alignment with the Renewed Hope Initiative, has introduced free medical care for senior citizens across the state.

250 elderly receive N200,000 each under Renewed Hope in Ebonyi

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250 elderly receive N200,000 each under Renewed Hope in Ebonyi

No fewer than 250 elderly citizens in Ebonyi State on Tuesday benefited from the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme as the third edition of the programme was held at the Banquet Hall of the Old Government House, Abakaliki.

The initiative, championed by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was represented at the event by the Wife of the Ebonyi State Governor, Chief Mrs. Mary-Maudline Uzoamaka Nwifuru.

The programme, themed “Finding Joy in Old Age,” forms part of the Renewed Hope Initiative Special Investment Programme for the elderly, aimed at promoting the well-being and dignity of senior citizens across Nigeria.

It was disclosed at the event that a total of 9,500 elderly citizens nationwide were selected as beneficiaries of the scheme, drawn from the 36 states of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory FCT, as well as wives of Defence and Police Officers.

Each beneficiary received a cash grant of N200,000, amounting to a total disbursement of N1.9 billion nationwide, in addition to a 50kg bag of rice per person, as approved by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative.

Under the programme, each state of the federation, including the FCT and the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association BOWA, received an allocation of N50 million to support 250 elderly citizens aged 65 years and above.

In a message to the beneficiaries, the First Lady emphasized that the initiative was designed to recognize and appreciate senior citizens for their immense contributions to nation-building.

She noted that the Renewed Hope Initiative has, since 2023, made it a tradition to celebrate and support elderly Nigerians every December.

She encouraged senior citizens to prioritize their health and happiness by remaining active, engaging in regular physical exercise, and fostering community relationships, stressing that ageing with gratitude goes beyond longevity and includes being surrounded by love, care, and respect.

Speaking on behalf of the Ebonyi State First Lady, Prof. Nkechi Echiegu described the programme as life-changing, noting that the theme, “Finding Joy in Old Age,” aptly captures the essence of the initiative.

She thanked the First Lady of Nigeria for remembering the elderly and for adding “life to their years,” while praying for the continuity of the programme.

She also urged beneficiaries to enjoy life, remain hopeful, and embrace joy in their old age, noting the excitement and gratitude displayed by the elderly as they received their alerts.

Also speaking, the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Barrister Felicia Nwamkpuma, commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, alongside his wife, for their commitment to impacting lives.

She assured them of massive and continuous support ahead of the 2027 elections.

The event ended on a celebratory note, with beneficiaries expressing joy and appreciation for the timely intervention as the festive season approaches nationwide.

Ekiti to Disburse ₦1bn Farm Profits to 4,657 Youths on Dec 17

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Ekiti to Disburse ₦1bn Farm Profits to 4,657 Youths on Dec 17

The Ekiti State Government will on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, disburse ₦1 billion to 4,657 beneficiaries under its Bring Back Our Youths in Agriculture programme.

The disbursement ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Osuntokun Pavilion, Government House, Ado-Ekiti, by 10:00 a.m.

In a statement made available to journalists in Ado-Ekiti, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, said the funds represent profits from the programme’s last farming season.

He explained that the initiative aligns with the government’s empowerment drive to strategically reinvest in agriculture in order to achieve food security and create sustainable wealth for both the state and its citizens.

According to him, the programme is primarily focused on empowering youths by providing access to land, farm inputs, technical support, and a guaranteed market, enabling young farmers to build sustainable livelihoods and earn steady income.

Mr. Boluwade further assured that revenues generated from farm clusters and government-led agricultural enterprises are reinvested into the sector to sustain growth and expand opportunities, noting that ₦145 million was similarly earned as profits and disbursed to 911 youths under the same scheme last year.

“The initiative operates a cluster-farming model covering crops such as maize, yam, soya beans, cassava, vegetables, rice, and beans (cowpea). The State Government’s commitment to the programme has actually resulted in an increase in farm cluster centres from five to twelve, located in Eporo, Ose, Ikere, Ogotun, Omuo, Egbe, Aramoko, Oke-Ako, Iyemero, Gede, Isan/Ayede, and Ise with over 5,000 hectares of land cleared for farming, and five of the centres equipped with fully functional dormitories,” he affirmed state.

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