To boost food security in Nigeria, the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) Plc recently concluded a comprehensive midyear training programme for lead farmers and extension agents in the aquaculture and cassava value chains across Imo, Sokoto, Kwara, and Oyo States.
The initiative, designed to enhance farmers’ capacities to access and repay commercial loans, engaged over 2,000 participants and included representatives from state governments.
Focusing on the Agro Geo-Cooperative approach to primary production, NIRSAL targets experienced lead farmers who can disseminate new knowledge to their respective cooperatives.
In Imo State, the program attracted around 500 participants across urban and rural locations, emphasising efficient fish production models.
Similar aquaculture-focused training was held in Sokoto, while Oyo and Kwara concentrated on cassava cultivation.
Uche Agabige, Imo State House Committee Chairman on Agriculture, praised NIRSAL for incorporating Imo into this capacity-building initiative, recognising its potential to complement local efforts in boosting agricultural productivity.
