LINUS CHUKWUMA
After three days of intensive training on various capacity building skills, participants at the just concluded 18th empowerment programme facilitated by the Senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, Uche Ekwunife, PhD left Senator Uche Ekwunife Centre, venue of the programme with renewed vigour, having acquired relevant skills that will position them to compete in the 21st century economy.
Ekwunife, who has remained unrelenting in her pursuit to empower her constituents to become self-reliant, had facilitated various programmes targeted at uplifting the women and youth of the Senatorial District.
The Senator, while addressing the gathering at the 3rd and last day of the programme, explained that increased investment in agriculture is necessary for Nigeria’s economic sustainability.
The A-grade lawmaker noted that the turnaround of the country’s dwindling economic fortunes would only be possible through concerted employment in the agricultural and manufacturing sector.
Ekwunife stated that, for improved agricultural productivity, rural dwellers need deeper knowledge on agricultural operations, especially as it relates to post harvest operations. She noted that Nigeria can achieve food sufficiency if proper investment in mechanized agriculture is made to increase the yield per hectare of our farmers.
Taking them down the memory lane, the federal lawmaker reminded the participants that agriculture was the backbone of the Nigerian economy and contributed circa 55 percent of the GDP between 1960 – 1970. She emphasized that the country used to earn most of its revenue from agricultural activities.
On the reason for facilitating the programme, Ekwunife who was represented by the head of her Liaison Office in Awka, Dr. Chinonso Ofozoba reiterated that the empowerment programmes were designed to equip constituents with relevant skills for economic survival, urging participants to take advantage of the training to enrich themselves.
Other speakers at the event include, the Coordinator of Bioresources Development Centre, National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), Abagana, Mr. Cletus Ezidi.
The training programme which began on December 6, 2022 ended on December 8, 2022.