By Jude Michael
The Anambra State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Forster Ihejiofor, has restated the commitment of the government to encourage farmers to adopt the basics of organic farming in view of its inherent benefits.
Speaking while receiving a delegation from Asia Africa Cooperative (AAC) Farmers Multi-Purpose Society on a courtesy visit, he acknowledged the importance of adopting the practice, pointing out that it would be further mainstreamed during the flag off of the year 2024 farming season.
While noting that agricultural extension played a critical role in bringing relevant innovations down to farmers, he added that training sessions would be organised for extension workers on application of organic products presented by the Cooperative Society.
Dr Ihejiofor, who described the presentation as in conformity with the yearnings of the farmers, however urged the group to provide laboratory results and protocols for the products application in yam, cassava and maize plantations.
In addition, he requested them to provide necessary documentations to legitimise their claim of being representatives of the company producing the organic products.
According to him, the steps would enable the Ministry to undertake pilot demonstration of the products’ efficacy across the agricultural zones in the state.
Earlier, the Anambra State Coordinator of the Cooperative Society, Hon Ifeanyi Njelita, appreciated the Commissioner for attending its summit on effects of climate change on agriculture and food security.
He said they considered it worthy to key into the state government’s agricultural revolution, especially in re-inventing what he called the glorious days of oil palm plantation, as well as the regenerative agricultural policy.
Contributing, a member of the delegation, Chimezie Maluze, described their organic products such as Herbicides, Fertilizers and Animal Vitamin/Immune Boosters as a most efficient, cost effective input that could increase productivity.
The meeting was attended by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs Ifeyinwa Uzoka; National Coordinator of the Society, Dr Nwachukwu Ernest; and Obinna Okafor, a member of the group.
