Mansur Soro, the House of Representatives member representing Darazo-Ganjuwa, has generously donated a Massey Ferguson 375 tractor to bolster agricultural activities in his constituency as the rainy season approaches. This contribution forms part of the Darazo-Ganjuwa Farm Mechanisation Support Initiative, a program designed to provide registered farmers with access to modern farming equipment. The initiative isn’t new; it builds upon a previous tractor donation of the same brand facilitated by Soro in 2020 after the registration of the farmers’ association with relevant government bodies. This demonstrates a continued commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity and modernizing farming practices within the constituency. The tractor is intended to be a shared resource, enabling farmers to cultivate larger areas of land more efficiently, boosting yields, and ultimately contributing to improved food security in the region.
Alongside the tractor donation, Soro launched the inaugural phase of the MMS Young Millionaires in Agriculture program, an ambitious initiative aiming to empower young people in agribusiness. This program targets 125 carefully selected youths, providing them with comprehensive support to cultivate rice. Each participant receives a starter pack containing four bags of NPK fertilizer, specifically the 15-15-15 formulation, suitable for balanced nutrient supply to rice crops. They also receive 15 kilograms of Faro-69, an improved rice seed variety known for its higher yield potential and disease resistance. To protect their crops, beneficiaries receive four liters of assorted pesticides and herbicides, along with a spraying machine for efficient application. A financial boost of N20,000 is also provided to cover land clearing expenses, ensuring participants have a prepared field for cultivation.
The MMS Young Millionaires in Agriculture program is strategically designed with a focus on achievable targets and substantial returns. Each participant is expected to cultivate a one-acre plot, with a projected harvest of 40 bags of paddy rice. Given the current market prices, this harvest is estimated to be worth N2 million, a significant sum that can significantly improve the financial standing of these young farmers. This program not only provides immediate support but also fosters entrepreneurial skills and encourages youth participation in the agricultural sector.
Soro emphasized the careful planning and evaluation built into the program. He stated that the second phase will only be initiated after a thorough review of the first phase’s implementation and impact. This approach ensures that lessons learned are incorporated into future iterations, maximizing the program’s effectiveness and sustainability. A team of farm extension officers will be responsible for this assessment, providing expert analysis and recommendations based on field observations and data collected from the participating farmers. This commitment to data-driven decision-making reinforces the program’s credibility and potential for long-term success.
The lawmaker’s focus on agricultural development reflects his dedication to improving the livelihoods of his constituents. By prioritizing agricultural interventions, Soro aims to address the pressing issue of food security and boost economic opportunities within Darazo-Ganjuwa. His commitment to supporting local farmers and empowering young agricultural entrepreneurs is a proactive approach to fostering economic growth and self-reliance within the community. This initiative aligns with national efforts to reduce Nigeria’s significant rice deficit, estimated at 3.5 million metric tonnes annually.
Soro’s commitment to bridging this deficit highlights the importance of local initiatives contributing to national food security goals. By focusing on boosting rice production within his constituency, Soro’s efforts contribute to a larger national strategy of reducing reliance on imported rice and promoting self-sufficiency in food production. These initiatives signify a bottom-up approach to tackling national challenges, demonstrating how local actions can contribute to achieving broader national development objectives. The combined efforts of the tractor donation and the youth empowerment program demonstrate a multifaceted approach to agricultural development, addressing both the need for modernized farming practices and the vital role of youth engagement in ensuring a sustainable agricultural sector.
