The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMFS), Dr. Ernest Umakhihe has authorized retirees from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to participate in the Agricultural and Rural Management Training Institute (ARMTI) in Abuja.
In a bid to enhance their productivity and foster independence in their post-service endeavors, the retirees have been provided with starter packs corresponding to their chosen areas.
Dr. Umakhihe emphasized that this empowerment initiative is in line with the ministry’s commitment to the four priorities of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President which include ensuring food security, economic growth and job creation, poverty eradication, and promoting inclusiveness.
The workshop, which focused on entrepreneurship skills development in agro-allied enterprises, aimed to equip participants to be independent and productive while contributing to the ministry’s core mandate. Dr. Umakhihe urged retirees to embrace continuous learning, adaptability, and innovation, emphasizing their role in ensuring food availability for ordinary Nigerians.
Udo Effik, Director of Reform Coordination, Service Improvement, and Innovation, highlighted the workshop’s significance in driving the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP 25). The event concentrated on three key areas: poultry, vegetable, and potato farming, with the belief that the lessons learned would contribute to food sufficiency and economic growth.
Deputy Director Engr. Ayodele Julius, speaking on behalf of the retirees, expressed gratitude for the initiative, considering it a valuable preparation for life after service. He assured that the starter packs provided would be put to good use.
