Senator Sharafadeen Alli has announced a personally facilitated agricultural empowerment programme aimed at boosting productivity and employment across Ibarapa Central and North Federal Constituency, with expert Gbenro Abraham unveiling a phased scheme targeting women, youths and men.
The announcement was made during a meeting with farmers, community leaders and party stalwarts from the seven principal towns in the constituency, where the senator said agriculture remained central to economic growth and food security. He explained that the programme would be implemented in phases to ensure inclusiveness and sustainability.
“This initiative is designed to equip our people with practical skills, modern techniques and support that will improve output and create jobs,” Alli said, noting that the scheme would focus on empowering different groups based on their needs and capacity.
The agricultural engagement formed part of broader consultations held at the Olu of Igboora Palace, where the senator met traditional rulers of Ibarapa Central and North, alongside executives of the Igboora Progress Union, IPU. Alli reaffirmed his commitment to addressing key development challenges facing the constituency.
Issues discussed included electricity supply, agricultural development, security, youth and artisan empowerment, traditional institutions, the abandoned Igangan General Hospital and the proposed Federal Medical Centre.
The senator disclosed that the Federal Medical Centre bill had passed all legislative stages and was awaiting Presidential assent. He credited Reps Muraina Saubana and Bayo Adepoju for their collaboration, saying, “We have worked together to ensure this project reaches an advanced stage.”
Alli expressed optimism that the centre would soon address healthcare challenges across Ibarapa communities.
On infrastructure, he said construction work had commenced on the Badagry–Sokoto Expressway linking Igboora and pledged continued engagement with the Minister of Works.
Addressing electricity challenges, Alli said he had engaged the Minister of Power and promised intervention to restore supply to Ibarapa North. He projected visible improvements within six months.
Earlier, IPU interim president, Pastor Alex Oladeji, represented by Vice President 1, Rev. Sanya Akinlade, outlined concerns on electricity, roads and healthcare, urging intensified interventions on priority projects.
