TheCable

Remi Tinubu, the first lady, has launched the renewed hope initiative agricultural support programme for women farmers in the north-central region of the country.

Speaking during the flag-off of the initiative on Tuesday in Jos, the Plateau capital, the first lady said the programme is currently ongoing in other regions in the country.

Remi, who was represented by Salamatu Gbajabiamila, wife of the chief of staff to the president, said the south-south is the only region where the project is yet to be launched.

She said N10 million would be disbursed to 20 women in each of the north-central states of Niger, Nasarawa, Plateau, Kwara and Kogi.

She said the programme will boost food security and empower women in agriculture, adding that the beneficiaries are those engaged in animal husbandry, poultry and fish farming.

“Today, we are flagging off the Renewed Hope Initiative Agricultural Support Programme for the north-central zone, in fulfilment of our promise to continue to promote the womenfolk, particularly farmers across the nation,” NAN quoted the first lady as saying.

“As we speak, this programme is holding simultaneously in three other zones, namely: north-east – Borno state; north-west- Kebbi state, south-west – Ogun state; while that of south-south will be hosted at a later date.

“The administration of his excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, recognises the pivotal role that agriculture plays in achieving sustainable development and ensuring food sufficiency.

“Therefore, RHI’s commitment to supporting women farmers nationwide aligns with the broader national agenda to strengthen the agricultural sector.

“Today, we are supporting 20 women farmers per state in the north-central zone with the sum of N500,000 each.

”To this end, a draft of N10 million each will be handed over to the first ladies of Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger and Plateau states, who are also RHI state coordinators, for onward disbursement to all beneficiaries in their respective states.

“I want to implore our women farmers receiving support today to seize this opportunity to expand their agricultural ventures, contribute to local and national food production, and serve as role models for others aspiring to join the sector.

“I am confident that this initiative will not only transform the lives of the individual beneficiaries but also contribute to food sufficiency in the north-central zone.

“I urge all stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and non-governmental organisations, to work hand in hand to support local farmers to ensure food security in our communities and nation at large.”

On her part, Helen Mutfwang, wife of  Plateau governor and state coordinator of RHI, said women play a crucial role in fostering sustainability and food security in the country.

Mutfwang, who was represented by Kachallom Gang, commissioner for higher education in Plateau, said “women in agriculture often face numerous challenges, including limited access to resources, lack of training and education, and gender-based discrimination”.

“This support will enable the women to reach their full potential and contribute to the growth and development of our agricultural sector,” she added.