News
ActionAid urges govts to improve investment in agriculture
ActionAid has urged the three tiers of government to improve on agricultural financing especially in intelligent technologies to increase productivity and efficiency by farmers in order to ensure food security.
Ms Constance Okeke, Project Manager, Public Financing of Agriculture (PFA) of ActionAid International, made the call at a Biennial Review (BR) Report Engagement Strategy and Dissemination meeting organised by the agency on Friday in Abuja.
Okeke said agricultural financing had become imperative and that an increase and early release of funds to farmers were critical for the growth of the agriculture sector.
She stressed that sustainable increased funding would have a multiplier effect on agricultural production and help reduce poverty level.
The project manager noted that agriculture was a sector that helped in fulfilling the fundamental human rights to food.
She said the aspect of increasing resources on agriculture especially to women and the youth in the country and the shift from subsistence to commercial agricultural production required adequate funding.
The manager noted that in spite of the federal government’s commitment to the 2003 Maputo declaration of allocating10 per cent of its annual budget to agriculture, up till date it had yet to actualise such commitment.
“We are not satisfied with the commitment of the government but then we would appreciate that there has been some element of progress; we need to do more than we are doing now.
“There are different ways of doing that: by improving on our programmes, policies and our implementation plan because implementation is the main aspect of any programme,’’ she said.
She noted that although governments were now making efforts to attract investment to agriculture, lack of understanding of the financial risks and opportunities in agriculture deprived the sector of much-needed funds to boost production, processing and marketing.
Okeke, however, expressed displeasure with the epileptic releases of budget allocations to the sector which always made it difficult to achieve the required 10 per cent based on the Maputo declaration.
“Therefore, we are advocating asking government to make sure that while increasing allocation to agriculture you also release so that there can be effect of this funding to agriculture,” Okeke said.
The manager said that the biennial review report, an initiative of African Union Heads of State, was basically to help review the implementation progress of African countries in terms of achieving comprehensive African development programmes target.
She explained that after the Maputo declaration, heads of states in 2014 in Malabo recommited and came up with seven areas forming the bases for biennial performance review report.
Similarly, Mr Azubuike Nwokoye, Programme Coordinator, Food and Agriculture, ActionAid Nigeria, noted that the PFA project implemented by the organisation was aimed at strengthening the capacity of farmer federations and women’s organisations.
He added that it was to enable them to engage directly with government agencies and institutions for effective and efficient agriculture budget allocations and utilisation that could favour smallholder women farmers.(NAN)
Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and former First Lady Patience Ibifaka Jonathan recently celebrated a significant family milestone as they attended the graduation ceremony of their son, Ariara Goodluck Jonathan, at Manchester Metropolitan University in the United Kingdom.
The proud parents joined family members and well-wishers to witness Ariara receive his degree, marking the successful completion of his academic programme. The occasion was filled with joy as the Jonathan family commemorated the achievement, highlighting the importance they place on education and personal development.
The graduation ceremony attracted warm congratulatory messages from friends, associates, and admirers, who wished the graduate continued success in his future endeavours.
The Following names joined the political family of Sen. Dr. George Akume today after leaving the sinking Alia ship .
Under the leadership of Barr. Emmanuel Jime .
The are ;
Chief Nelson Alapa
Douglas pepe SAN senatorial Aspirant zone A,
Engr Peter Ashiekaa
QS Clement Beetseh
Former commissioners
Joy Luga
Ann itodo
Barr martins Shaagee
Miss Dorcas
Prof Usar Joseh
Prof Cephas Tushima
Chief Patrick Idoko
Hon Patience Akor
Hon Fred Idoko
Hon Lawrence Ekpo Onoja Jnr
Hon Andrew Abah
Hon Agbo Innocent Ikwumonu
Hon Simon Omachoko
Hon David Egboja
Dr John Garba
Among together,
Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, Executive Director (Networks) of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, on his renomination as the Vice Presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
In his message, Engr. Bello described the renomination as a beautiful affirmation of the Vice President’s enduring commitment to Nigeria’s unity, stability, and prosperity. He noted that Senator Shettima, himself a former Senator of the Federal Republic, has consistently embodied resilience, foresight, and a deep sense of responsibility, qualities that continue to inspire confidence across the nation.
“This renomination is a shining testament to your unwavering dedication to the Nigerian people,” Engr. Bello stated. “It reflects the trust of the party and the citizens in your ability to guide our country toward greater progress, peace, and prosperity. Your leadership has been a beacon of hope, and this endorsement is richly deserved.”
Engr. Bello further emphasized that Senator Shettima’s political journey has been marked by courage and service. From his tenure as Governor of Borno State to his current role as Vice President, he has consistently championed initiatives that address national challenges, foster economic growth, and promote inclusive development.
As a leader in the power sector, Engr. Bello highlighted the importance of visionary leadership in driving infrastructure and energy reforms. He expressed confidence that Senator Shettima’s continued role in government will further strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to deliver reliable power, expand opportunities, and improve the quality of life for millions of citizens.
He prayed that Almighty Allah grants the Vice President wisdom, strength, and good health to continue serving the nation with distinction. “May Allah bless your efforts, guide your decisions, and grant you success as you carry forward the responsibility of leadership,” he added.
The message concluded with a reaffirmation of goodwill and support: “Congratulations once again, Your Excellency. We look forward to your continued contributions to the peace, progress, and prosperity of Nigeria.”
Signed:Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSEExecutive Director (Networks)Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC)
Goodluck Jonathan’s Family Celebrates Son’s Graduation in UK
2027 BENUE GUBER: MORE TROUBLE FOR GOV ALIA
ENGR. BELLO BABAYO BELLO FELICITATES VICE PRESIDENT KASHIM SHETTIMA ON RENOMINATION
-
Uncategorized5 years agoFG, states urged to harness flooding for ranching, others with technology – Agbaje
-
Headlines10 years agoBreaking: EFCC seals Borno House of Assembly, as Hon members take to their heels
-
News12 years agoNigeria Security Operatives Stage Manhunt For Homosexual Perpetrator
-
News9 years agoHow 21-year-old Girl fled community over accusation of lesbianism
-
News10 years agoYobe Gov Moves Against Deputy
-
Opinion7 years ago7 signs she has friend zoned you
-
Technology5 years ago
Online job placement company headhunts women
-
Headlines10 years agoBorno Dep Gov Abducts Another Church Leader