Ministry reiterates readiness to encourage youths in agriculture

October 13, 2012 18:12

NAN-H-37

Youth

Abuja, Oct. 13, 2012 (NAN) The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has reiterated its commitment to encourage youths to embrace agriculture.

Dr Ezekiel Oyemomi, Permanent Secretary of the ministry made this known on Saturday in a statement signed by Alhaji Salisu Na’inna, the Director of Information in the ministry.

Oyemomi was speaking on the sidelines of the launch of a Gari Processing Plant in Orozo, Abuja, constructed by Miss Halima Isemekona, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member.

He extolled the initiative of the Corps member urging other youths to emulate her.

Oyemomi advised the Orozo leaders and people to guard the project against theft and vandalism by hoodlums.

In her remarks, Isemekona said that she was inspired to embark on the project because of the problems encountered by farmers in Orozo and its environs.

She said the farmers trekked very long distances to process their cassava produce.

The corps member noted that the plant would reduce post harvest cassava losses, empower the youths and women in agriculture as well as ensure food security.

Mr Frank Ekpenobi, FCT Coordinator of the NYSC called on the communities to tap into the expertise of corps members’ for their mutual benefit.

He urged incoming corps members to build on the legacies of their predecessors through the initiation of similar projects. (NAN)

AKD/HAS/MZA

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