By Tosin Olasunkanmi, Osogbo
The National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) in collaboration with Issah Adedotun Foundation has empowered 80 broiler farmers in Oba-Oke, Olorunda Local Government Area of Osun State as part of its efforts to reduce poverty and enhance food production at the grassroots.
The empowerment programme tagged Renewed Hope Agricultural Empowerment Programme” held on April 23, was facilitated by the Special Adviser to the President on Protocol, Hon. Issah Adedotun Niniola.
He described the initiative as a key component of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at cushioning the effects of economic challenges and directly impacting rural communities.
“This is more than an empowerment programme,” Niniola said. “It is a deliberate poverty-eradication initiative designed to provide a sustainable source of income for the beneficiaries.”
Each of the 80 beneficiaries received battery cages, three-week-old broiler chicks, and feed to support the birds until they are ready for market. Niniola explained that the profits from the poultry project will be shared in a structured formula: 60 percent to the farmers, 30 percent to NALDA, and 10 percent to the host community.
He also highlighted other ongoing federal government interventions such as; education loan scheme, petty credit programmes for small-scale traders, and monthly stipends of N20,000 for students, initiatives he said reflect the administration’s commitment to uplifting Nigerians.
Niniola pledged to continue sourcing similar opportunities and extending them to more communities. “I see it as a personal duty to always bring initiatives like this to our people,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of beneficiaries, Pastor Orisajo Gbenga expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “I feel highly delighted. We all know poultry farming is capital intensive, but with this gesture, things have become easier for us as farmers,” he said.
Describing the programme as a sustainable poverty eradication effort, Pastor Gbenga urged other beneficiaries to remain committed.
“If we are able to sustain it, we will all be better for it,” he added.
He also commended the All Progressives Congress (APC) led federal government for what he described as its pro-poor policies.
According to the man of God, “APC is not a party that only sits to share wealth; it is a party that thinks about the grassroots,” he said.
Ends.
