
08/03/2025
Senator Dafinone Empowers Delta Central Farmers Through Agricultural Training
In a determined effort to boost food security and agricultural productivity in Delta Central, Senator Ede Dafinone has launched a two-day Agriculture and Food Security Training and Empowerment Programme at the PTI Conference Centre, Effurun, Delta State. The initiative, organized in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, is aimed at equipping farmers with modern techniques to improve crop yield and sustainability.
Delivering the welcome address on behalf of Senator Ede Dafinone, Olorogun Ejemudiaro Salubi, Head of Projects in the senator’s office, reiterated that agriculture remains a key driver of economic growth. He stated that the programme is part of the senator’s constituency capital projects, designed to empower women and youth with essential farming skills to enhance food production and self-sufficiency.
The first day of the training, themed "Pest Resistance Vegetables: Tomatoes, Pepper, Maize, and Groundnuts," focused on equipping farmers with techniques to combat pest infestations and maximize productivity. Master Trainers from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture provided in-depth lectures on best agricultural practices and effective pest management strategies.
Mr. Obasi Sunday, a Master Trainer, led the session on "Production Protocol of Tomato, Hot Pepper, and Sweet Pepper," educating farmers on seed preparation, soil management, irrigation, and pest control. Mrs. T. Adeshola followed with a detailed presentation on okra farming, highlighting modern techniques to improve yield and resistance to pests.
Similarly, Mrs. Olabisi Oladele discussed "Profitable Groundnut Production and Major Pest Challenges," offering insights into disease control measures and soil fertility management. Mrs. Raheem Adejoke Arike educated farmers on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) for maize production, stressing the importance of crop rotation, soil testing, and organic farming.
To broaden farmers' perspectives on agribusiness, Ogechi Happiness Ewa delivered a session on "Agri-Business Based on the SHEP (Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment & Promotion) App