In a bold move to enhance food security, the Bayelsa State Government has pledged full support for beneficiaries of its Soilless Farming Scheme, equipping them to drive agricultural innovation in the state.
Governor Douye Diri made this commitment while addressing 180 trainees at the Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Yenagoa.
However, the beneficiaries had undergone specialized training in Ogun State through a partnership between the Bayelsa State Government and MasterCard, positioning them as pioneers of soilless farming in the region.
Governor Diri emphasized that food security remains a priority for his administration, stressing that the ultimate goal is not only to feed Bayelsans but also to produce enough food for surrounding states.
He urged the trainees to apply their skills effectively, become self-reliant, and extend their knowledge to others.
“We recognize the importance of agriculture in securing our future. Our vision is to make Bayelsa a hub for food production, and you are at the center of this transformation,” he stated.
The governor praised MasterCard for facilitating the training and commended the Commissioner for Youth Development, Alfred Kemepado, for spearheading the initiative.
He further assured that the government would continue to invest in such programs, provided the trainees deliver results.
“If you perform well, we will expand this initiative to train even more people. But if you fail, there will be no justification for further investment,” he warned.
Kemepado expressed appreciation for the governor’s commitment, noting that the program would significantly strengthen Bayelsa’s agricultural landscape. One of the trainees, Tari Adamawa, highlighted the efficiency of soilless farming, noting that it requires minimal space and offers high productivity.
With the state government’s backing, the trainees are now poised to introduce a new era of modern, sustainable agriculture, redefining food production in Bayelsa and beyond.
