In a significant move to enhance agricultural productivity in the NorthEast region, the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF) has donated 25 water-pumping machines to farmers in Taraba State ahead of dry season farming.
According to Tosin Adeyanju, Executive Secretary/CEO of the agency, this pilot program aims to provide vital agricultural equipment to support dry-season farmers across the federation.
At the donation event, Adeyanju stated, “We are here to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to empowering rural communities through sustainable agricultural development. This donation of water-pumping machines aligns with our mission to promote GOOD CAUSES for citizens, communities, and the downtrodden across the country, thereby enhancing food security, economic growth, and poverty reduction.”
Adeyanju highlighted the importance of irrigation in improving agricultural production, addressing water scarcity, and boosting crop yields.
“Irrigation is crucial for improving agricultural production, addressing water scarcity, boosting crop yields, and enhancing farmers’ resilience to climate change. These machines will address some irrigation-related challenges farmers face, in order to increase their productivity, income, and overall well-being,” he noted.
The NLTF has previously intervened in various areas in Taraba State, including providing sports equipment to public primary schools, medical equipment to the General Hospital in Bali, and supporting women empowerment programs.
Adeyanju expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his vision for a better Nigeria, prioritizing agricultural development, rural transformation, and inclusive growth.
In his words: “We thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and vision for a better Nigeria. His Renewed Hope mandate inspires us to work tirelessly towards a brighter future for Nigerian communities.”
Nassir Muhammed, representing the Gassol Local Government Chairman, praised the initiative, saying, “We are profoundly grateful to President Tinubu and the National Lottery Trust Fund for this life-changing initiative. The distribution of pumping machines to our farmers will revolutionize agricultural production in our region.”
Mohammed Lau, speaking on behalf of the beneficiary farmers, emphasized the impact of the donation.
“We are extremely thankful for these machines, which will enable us to farm during the dry season and significantly increase our profits. With these machines, we can now farm throughout the year, regardless of the season. Our crop yields will increase, and we will be able to supply fresh produce to the market consistently,” Mohammed said.