The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has empowered over 500 smallholder farmers in Edo State with seeds, to spice up tomato manufacturing within the nation.
The Edo State Director, Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Samuel Owoicho, who distributed the seeds to members of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria in Benin, on Thursday, mentioned the hassle was to alleviate the excessive price of tomatoes within the state.
While urging farmers to domesticate tomatoes of their backyards for self-sufficiency, Owoicho mentioned the initiative was geared towards making Edo State self-sufficient in tomato manufacturing and lowering market costs.
“The Federal Government is devoted to empowering farmers and making certain a sustainable future.
“The farmers have been skilled on finest practices for tomato cultivation. The coaching will guarantee they maximise the yield and high quality of their produce.
“Tomatoes should not solely a staple in our diets but in addition a key crop that helps the livelihoods of many farmers throughout the nation.
“Recognising the significance of tomato farming, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has been actively working to provide support and foster growth in this sector,” he mentioned.
The director famous that the ministry was dedicated to making sure that tomato farmers had entry to high-quality seeds and inputs.
“We have partnered with analysis establishments and seed corporations to develop and distribute improved seed varieties which can be proof against pests and ailments, have increased yields, and are higher suited to our local weather
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“Additionally, we are facilitating access to fertilisers, pesticides, and other essential inputs at subsidised rates to reduce the cost burden on our farmers,” he said.
In his remarks, the state Chairman of AFAN, Bako Dogwo, counseled the Federal Government for the empowerment.
Dogwo famous that the seeds would increase tomato cultivation within the state and the nation.