Bu Winnie Onu, Makurdi
The Agricultural Development for Economic Growth Initiative (AgDEG), in collaboration with the Lower Benue River Basin Development Authority (LBRBDA), has launched a Community of Practice (CoP) in Agriculture aimed at driving innovation, strengthening collaboration, and enhancing food production across Benue State.
Speaking at the launch in Makurdi, AgDEG Country Director, Joseph Unogwu Adayi, said the initiative seeks to create a coordinated platform for stakeholders in the agricultural value chain to share knowledge, harmonise interventions, and collectively work toward food security and economic growth.
“The synergy among stakeholders is sacrosanct because we all work toward one goal – achieving food security and economic development,” Adayi stated.
He explained that the CoP will foster collaboration among key actors, including the state Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, donor agencies, academia, development partners, and farmer groups.
According to him, the platform will also enhance agricultural visibility, coordination, and sustainability while empowering smallholder farmers and vulnerable groups.
Adayi noted that AgDEG’s vision is to strengthen small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) and promote private-sector-driven agricultural extension services that will unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s agricultural sector for both rural and national growth.
In his remarks, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Benjamin Ashaver, represented by the Deputy Director of Agricultural Services, Abu Owoicho, commended AgDEG and LBRBDA for initiating the forum, describing it as a “vital platform” for transforming the state’s agricultural landscape.
“Your expertise and collaboration are key to driving innovation, increasing productivity, and promoting sustainable practices that will improve farmers’ livelihoods and strengthen food systems,” Ashaver said.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of the Lower Benue River Basin Development Authority, Terese Ninga, pledged continuous partnership with AgDEG and other stakeholders to sustain agricultural development in Benue and neighbouring states.
