Edo South Senatorial District representative, Senator Neda Imasuen, has warned farmers who recently received empowerment support under his agricultural development initiative to resist the temptation of auctioning their farm implements and chemicals.
Speaking in Benin City during a training programme organized for the beneficiaries, Senator Imasuen urged the farmers to make judicious use of the items, noting that the empowerment was aimed at enhancing food production, boosting their livelihoods, and contributing to national development.
“These items we are giving you today were carefully selected to help improve your work on the farm,” he said. “I’ve been told that sometimes when such items are distributed, some people resell them. I sincerely hope that will not happen here. Please take full advantage of this opportunity.”
He emphasized that the programme was spread over two days to ensure that the farmers receive adequate training on how to effectively use the implements and agricultural chemicals provided.
“This initiative is dear to me,” the Senator added. “I believe it will go a long way in helping our farmers improve their yields and, by extension, support their families, communities, and the entire country.”
Agribusiness expert and lead resource person at the training, Iretiolu Odi, urged the farmers to adopt a business mindset towards agriculture. She encouraged them to build on the senator’s gesture by adding value to their practices and positioning themselves for profitability.
“Farmers are the richest people on earth,” Odi said. “You feed the nation, and you are important. Treat farming like a business and plan for continuity, so your children can also take over and expand what you’ve built.”
She provided practical guidance on farm management, including planning, record-keeping, financial literacy, and profit maximization.
Also speaking, agricultural trainer Mr. Lekan Salami educated the farmers on the proper use of the assorted chemicals. He explained the recommended mixture ratios for both insecticides and herbicides, noting that proper application is key to effective pest and weed control.
“Farming remains one of the surest means of survival in our country,” Salami said. “Knowing how to apply these chemicals correctly will help you protect your crops and increase your productivity.”
Items distributed to the farmers included rain boots, cutlasses, insecticides, sharpening files, hand gloves, and hoes.
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