News
Rice production: Ayade appeals for FG’s assistance in land development
Gov. Ben Ayade of Cross River has appealed to the Federal Government to assist in land development for rice cultivation in the state.
Ayade made the appeal on Friday at the South-South Rice Value Chains Stakeholders Forum in Calabar.
The governor was represented by Mr Emmanuel Ano, his Special Adviser on Agriculture and Value Chains Development.
He said the greatest succour that the federal government could give to farmers in the state was to help them in land development.
He maintained that land clearing remained a fundamental challenge to increased rice production in the whole of the South-South region.
“If the federal government concentrates its effort in assisting farmers in clearing and developing land in terms of ploughing and harrowing, rice cultivation will be enhanced in the South-South,” he said.
Ayade said the state had acquired 15 bulldozers, 30 tractors of 120 horsepower and was planning to acquire 100 more to be given to small holder farmers and cooperatives.
“We need the federal government to strengthen our efforts by making materials available to the farmers, particularly viable seedlings and irrigation facilities,” he said.
The governor further appealed to the federal government to repair the existing dams in Cross River to enable the people to contribute to the national food security plan.
Earlier, Mrs Karima Babangida, Director, Federal Department of Agriculture, said government was committed to supporting the agricultural sector in order to realise its objective of achieving food and nutrition security.
Babangida said government had identified rice value chain as strategic in achieving the objectives hence the need for synergy with stakeholders to develop the sector and guide government’s policy direction.
She said the federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development had taken steps to boost rice production in post COVID-19 Nigeria.
The director said that the ministry had distributed 36 metric tonnes of seeds of flood tolerant varieties FARO 66 and 67 to rice farmers nationwide, through its Rice Value Chain Desk.
She added that the ministry had also provided agro chemicals, organic fertilisers, planting and harvesting equipment and rice milling machines to farmers.
Accordingto her, the ministry has facilitated the establishment of 25 integrated rice mills by private investors nationwide to enhance production.
In a lecture, Dr Chijioke Osuji, an international rice value chain expert, said for rice cultivation to be successful in Nigeria, there was need to cover gaps in availability of improved seedlings, land development, off-take, mechanisation and others.
Osuji said mechanising rice production and processing was necessary to free up labour that would go into other value chains.
He added that the measure would reduce unemployment because the various value chains would be looking for people to employ.
News
Goodluck Jonathan’s Family Celebrates Son’s Graduation in UK
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.
News
2027 BENUE GUBER: MORE TROUBLE FOR GOV ALIA
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,
News
ENGR. BELLO BABAYO BELLO FELICITATES VICE PRESIDENT KASHIM SHETTIMA ON RENOMINATION
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)
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