A recent awareness initiative has been launched in the Federal Capital Territory to help local farmers and herders understand how to adjust their practices in response to climate change.
The program is being carried out under the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Project and is designed to support those in the Paikon-Kore and Karshi grazing reserves.
The sessions are expected to reach more than 200 participants in each of the two locations. Topics covered include better ways to manage livestock, how to reduce pollution through recycling, and how to adapt farming methods to changing weather patterns.
The goal is to introduce simple and effective changes that can help communities maintain productivity while protecting the environment.
During a session in Gwagwalada Area Council, Dr Omole Olateju, the SAPZ Coordinator, explained that farming methods need to evolve with the times.
He said many older techniques may no longer meet current demands and that farmers should be open to learning and applying newer approaches.
Dr Olateju added that the project aims to help farmers build the skills needed to cope with changing climate conditions.
Participants were encouraged to ask questions and seek clarification to make the most of the information provided.
Also speaking at the event, the officer responsible for environmental and social safeguards, Mr Larayetan Shedrach Olabode noted that the program is part of efforts to prepare farmers for upcoming SAPZ activities.
He explained that climate change has already started to affect agriculture and infrastructure, making early preparation important.
Mr Olabode said the training would not end with the current sessions. Ongoing support is planned to ensure that participants continue learning even after the main activities of the project have wrapped up.
According to him, some farmers may also be chosen for additional training that will focus more deeply on ways to build resilience and reduce the impact of climate-related challenges.
Environmental expert Mr B J Bamisaiye, who contributed to the training, stressed the need for farmers to stay informed.
He said good information and consistent guidance can make a real difference in how communities respond to environmental changes.
One of the participants, Abubakar Mohammed Juli, expressed appreciation for the training.
He said the knowledge gained would help him and others improve their work and become more prepared for the effects of climate change.
