To strengthen agricultural extension officers and agents in Kwara State, Olam Agri, a Nigerian company in the integrated feed and protein business, is organising a two-day workshop called Agri-Extension Capacity Building Workshop in collaboration with the Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture.
On July 15 and 16, 2024, the workshop took place in Ilorin as revealed on the agricultural news in Nigeria.
An important step towards the general development of Kwara State’s agricultural industry was made possible by the platform it offered for giving extension agents the real-world information and abilities they need to assist farmers. Support was given at the workshop by high-ranking state government representatives, including Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, Commissioner for Agriculture; Mrs. Funke Sokoya, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture; Afolabi Temple, Press Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture; and other directors. A total of 118 extension officers received training.
The significance of this empowerment was emphasised by Mr. Seyi Adesomi, Vice President of Manufacturing & Technical Services at Olam Agri, who said: “This workshop equips extension agents with the necessary skills to train farmers on essential practices like sustainable agriculture, post-harvest loss reduction, and farm mechanization.”
Continuing, he pointed out that the emphasis on soybean production is consistent with Olam Agri’s dedication to fostering the expansion of this important commodity in Nigeria.
The Kwara State Commissioner for Agriculture, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, reaffirmed the state government’s steadfast dedication to guaranteeing food security and encouraging sustainable practices. She said: “We are committed to supporting our agricultural extension agents, who are critical in empowering our farmers. This workshop provides them with the necessary tools and knowledge to deliver effective extension services, particularly in soybean production.”
However, Olam Agri plans to commission a new soybean crushing facility in Kwara State in the upcoming months in addition to these initiatives. This facility will demonstrate Olam Agri’s dedication to promoting agricultural development and economic prosperity in the area by significantly increasing the local capacity for processing soybeans, generating employment, and strengthening the agricultural value chain in Kwara State.
