In a strategic move to enhance food security and support sustainable agriculture, the BATN Foundation, in collaboration with the Akwa Ibom State Government, has distributed 2,000 Noiler chickens to 100 smallholder farmers across the state.
The initiative, aimed at boosting rural farming and empowering vulnerable groups, was launched at the Akwa Ibom Agricultural Development Project premises.
The program targets women, particularly widows, youth, and people with disabilities, equipping them with essential resources to establish and sustain profitable poultry farming ventures.
Each farmer received 20 Noiler chickens, a 25kg bag of poultry feed, and a 150g multivitamin sachet to ensure optimal health and productivity of the birds.
Rosemary Ubia, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, highlighted the importance of the project while representing Commissioner Effiong Offor.
“This initiative aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE agenda to drive agricultural production and economic growth in Akwa Ibom State,” she said. Additionally, beneficiaries were supported with N5,000 for transportation.
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The General Manager of the BATN Foundation, Oludare Odusanya, emphasized the economic potential of the project.
“This initiative not only addresses food security but also creates opportunities for smallholder farmers to establish sustainable agri-businesses, driving economic empowerment at the grassroots level,” Odusanya stated.
The beneficiaries were selected through a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Poultry Farmers Association of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association. The rigorous selection process ensured that those most in need were prioritized.
Teddy Essien, Director of Veterinary Services in Akwa Ibom State, lauded the program for its potential to transform the poultry sector in rural areas. “This project is a catalyst for improving rural agriculture and developing sustainable farming practices,” Essien noted.
Namokwo Orok, Director of Livestock and Husbandry, described the initiative as a timely intervention in the state’s agricultural revolution. “This partnership represents a critical step toward advancing modern farming practices and fostering economic growth in our communities,” Orok said.
The project, implemented by Eco-Lead Imperial Engineering and Global Services Ltd., also focuses on gender inclusion and youth empowerment. According to Odusanya, “By equipping women and youth with practical poultry farming skills, this initiative promotes gender equality while enhancing income-generation opportunities in rural communities.”
This collaborative effort serves as a model for sustainable agricultural development, demonstrating how partnerships between private foundations and government can drive innovation and economic growth in the agro-business sector.
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