59,000 smallholder farmers and 2,000 agro-entrepreneurs in Ogun State have been trained on innovative farming techniques under the HortiNigeria Programme.
This announcement was made by HortiNigeria Programme’s Director, Mr. Mohammed Salasi, during a two-day learning workshop held in Abeokuta, the state capital.
According to Salasi, the training aimed to enhance the productivity and income of 59,000 smallholder farmers, comprising 40% women and 50% youth.
He noted that the program has already shown impressive results, with a 92% increase in the production of key crops such as cabbage, onion, and tomato.
Salasi explained that this initiative aims to create a sustainable horticulture industry in Nigeria, thereby improving food and nutrition security. The programme’s interventions are specifically targeted in Kaduna, Kano, Ogun, and Oyo states.
Represented by Abdullahi Umar at the workshop, Salasi explained that since its inception, the HortiNigeria Programme has also facilitated access to finance for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), enhanced sector coordination, and strengthened business linkages.
He further noted that this training is part of efforts to empower farmers and agro-entrepreneurs to adopt modern farming practices, ensuring they can meet both local and global agricultural demands.
“The programme aims to enhance food and nutrition security in line with both Dutch and Nigerian objectives,” he said.
“Since November 2021, HortiNigeria has launched several initiatives across Kaduna, Kano, Ogun, and Oyo states, spanning ten value chains within the horticulture sector: cabbage, cucumber, okra, onions, pepper, sweetcorn, tomatoes, and watermelon.”