In a significant move to enhance agricultural productivity in Nigeria’s North East region, the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF), has kickstarted its pilot program in the region with the donation of 25 water-pumping machines to farmers in Taraba State. This pilot program is part of ongoing efforts by the NLTF to provide vital agricultural equipment to support dry-season farmers across the federation and address their irrigation-related challenges, with the aim of promoting improved crop yields and economic growth.
The Executive Secretary/CEO of the agency Comrade Tosin Adeyanju represented by Mallam Sagir Ahmed Mohd an assistant director monitoring and evaluation while addressing the beneficiaries, stated that, “We are here to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to empowering rural communities through sustainable agricultural development. This donation of water-pumping machines, aligns with our mission to promote GOOD CAUSES for citizens, communities, and the downtrodden across the country, thereby enhancing food security, economic growth and poverty reduction.”
Adeyanju also highlighted previous interventions by the NLTF in Taraba State. He said, “Over the years, we have intervened in various areas in Taraba State, including; the provision of sports equipment to 59 public primary schools, first-aid boxes and kits to 9 public secondary schools, vital medical equipment to the General Hospital, Bali, as well as the support given by the agency to several women empowerment programs, and the provision of empowerment materials for women and youth in Taraba”
He noted the importance of irrigation in improving agricultural production, addressing water scarcity, boosting crop yields, and enhancing farmers’ resilience to climate change. “Irrigation is crucial for improving agricultural production, addressing water scarcity, boosting crop yields, and enhancing farmers’ resilience to climate change. These machines will address some irrigation-related challenges farmers face, in order to increase their productivity, income and overall well-being.”, he stated.
Adeyanju, in his remarks, also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his vision for a better Nigeria, which prioritises agricultural development, rural transformation and inclusive growth. He said, “We thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and vision for a better Nigeria, prioritising agricultural development, rural transformation and inclusive growth. His Renewed Hope mandate inspires us to work tirelessly towards a brighter future for Nigerian communities.”
“We promise to continue spreading GOOD CAUSES across Nigeria, fostering inclusive growth, enhancing the quality of life, and promoting good health, social progress, and economic development. Our Monitoring and Evaluation team will conduct regular visits to ensure the equipment benefits the people”, he added.
Adeyanju concluded by stressing that, “Today’s donation marks the beginning of a new chapter in our partnership with Taraba State farmers. We look forward to witnessing the transformative impacts of these pumping machines and exploring opportunities for further collaboration during dry season farming.
In his remarks, Hon. Nassir Muhammed, who spoke on behalf of the Gassol Local Government Chairman, said, “We are profoundly grateful to President Tinubu and the National Lottery Trust Fund for this life-changing initiative. The distribution of pumping machines to our farmers will revolutionise agricultural production in our region, and we look forward to witnessing the transformative impacts it will have on our communities.”
“We are confident that these machines will revolutionise our farming practices, reduce our reliance on rainfall, and make us more resilient to climate change. We assure the NLTF that we will make the most of this donation and ensure the machines are properly maintained and utilised”, he added.
Speaking on behalf of the farmers who benefited from NLTF’s donation of water-pumping machines to Taraba State, Mohammed Lawali Lau expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the NLTF for the water-pumping machines given to the farmers, as he emphasised that the machines will no doubt, incentivise the farmers, stimulate economic growth and contribute to achieving food security in Nigeria through sustainable agricultural productivity.
He said, “We are extremely thankful for these machines which will enable us to farm during the dry season and significantly increase our profits. This generous donation from the National Lottery Trust Fund has come at the right time, and we are eager to put the machines to good use.
“With these machines, we can now farm throughout the year, regardless of the season. Our crop yields will increase, and we will be able to supply fresh produce to the market consistently. This means more income for our families and a better life for our communities.
“The impact of this donation goes beyond just our farms. It will stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and contribute to food security in our state. We are proud to partner with the NLTF and appreciate their commitment to empowering rural communities through sustainable agricultural development.”
Arowolo Solomon Alaba
Special Assistant to the Executive Secretary (Media & Corporate Communications)
17/11/2024