By Chioma Onuegbu, Uyo

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of NNPC Ltd, has launched an agricultural training program aimed at empowering vulnerable farmers in Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of the NNPC Foundation, Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, represented by Dr. Bala David, Executive Director of Program Development and Coordinator, emphasized that the initiative seeks to equip beneficiaries with the tools, knowledge, and resources needed to transition from subsistence farming to commercial-scale production.

In her address, Arukwe described the program as a commitment to food security, economic empowerment, and national development.

“It is with immense pleasure and a deep sense of purpose that I welcome you all to the official launch of the NNPC Ltd Agricultural Training Initiative for Vulnerable Farmers. This program is a testament to our unwavering commitment to food security, economic empowerment, and national development. Our goal is to equip every participant with the tools, knowledge, and resources needed to transition from subsistence farming to commercial-scale production,” she stated.

Arukwe further noted that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s agricultural transformation agenda, aimed at enhancing food security, increasing productivity, and improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers across Nigeria.

“As we gather here today, we must acknowledge the pressing reality of food insecurity in Nigeria. According to the Cadre Harmonisé Report (March 2024), an estimated 31.5 million Nigerians across the six geopolitical zones are currently facing food insecurity,” she said.

Arukwe pointed out that agriculture remains the primary source of livelihood for over 70% of Nigeria’s population, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (2024). However, many farmers remain trapped in subsistence production due to limited access to modern techniques, quality inputs, and competitive markets.

“This training is designed to change that narrative. Together with our partners, government representatives, and stakeholders, we can revolutionize Nigeria’s agricultural landscape and secure a food-sufficient and economically stable future for all,” she added.

The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. (Mrs.) Offiong Offor, represented by her Permanent Secretary, Dr. (Mrs.) Atim Okoko, commended the NNPC Foundation for its commitment to food security. She appealed to the foundation to extend the program to other farmer groups, highlighting that Akwa Ibom State has over 10,000 farmers.

“I want to express the appreciation of the Akwa Ibom State government to the NNPC for mounting this laudable program. Your program has come at a time when our dear governor, Pastor Umo Eno, is heavily supporting agriculture in the state. Under his ARISE Agenda, the first letter ‘A’ represents Agriculture,” Offor said.