FIC Report (Edo State) – Edo State officially inaugurated the 2026 Farming Season on Thursday, April 9, at the State Agricultural Hub, emphasizing the importance of embracing innovation, adopting best agricultural practices, and utilizing improved inputs to boost productivity. The event, attended by Farmers, Government Officials, and Agricultural Stakeholders, marked a renewed commitment to strengthening Agriculture as the backbone of the State’s Economy and ensuring Food Security for its growing Population.
During the flag-off ceremony, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Jerry Uwangue, highlighted that the occasion was not merely the commencement of the planting season but also a platform to sensitize Farmers on the critical need for timely planting and the adoption of modern farming techniques. He stressed the significance of using quality inputs such as improved seeds, fertilizers, agrochemicals, and mechanized equipment, which have been made available to farmers to enhance yields.
“Experience has shown that early and well-coordinated planting, combined with the use of quality inputs, significantly increases productivity, enhances crop yield, and ultimately guarantees food availability for our growing population,” Dr. Uwangue remarked. He reaffirmed the State’s commitment to Agriculture, describing it as a vital sector that supports economic growth, food sufficiency, and the livelihoods of farmers. The initiative aligns with Governor Godwin Obaseki’s SHINE Agenda, particularly focusing on Economic development and Food security.
The Commissioner called on local government authorities and agricultural extension officers to intensify efforts in mobilizing and educating Farmers across the State. “The success of this farming season depends largely on your commitment, resilience, and willingness to embrace modern techniques,” he urged.
Mrs. Rebecca Osedebamen Bamaiyi, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, described the event as a valuable platform for Farmers, Agribusinesses, and partners to interact, access improved inputs, and learn modern farming practices. She expressed gratitude to various organizations that provided support and inputs, emphasizing the Ministry’s commitment to making the event impactful and beneficial for all participants.
A significant aspect of the event was the focus on Youth Empowerment through the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises Project for the Niger Delta (LIFE-ND). Mr. John Omoruyi, the project coordinator, explained that LIFE-ND functions as an apprenticeship program that trains and empowers young individuals to become independent entrepreneurs in Agriculture.
Represented by Mrs. Grace Iredia-Amedu, the State Agribusiness Promotion Officer, Omoruyi noted that since its inception, the project had trained over 5,000 beneficiaries, including Youths aged 18 to 35 and persons with disabilities. The program involves attaching participants to experienced farmers, known as incubators, who train them over two to three months. Afterward, beneficiaries are supported with seed capital to establish their own agricultural ventures.
“LIFE-ND is designed to equip young people with practical skills and financial support to start their own farms or agribusinesses,” Omoruyi explained. “In our first phase, we trained 4,337 beneficiaries, and in the current phase, 665 beneficiaries have been trained, awaiting financial support. Overall, we have surpassed 5,000 beneficiaries since the program began.”
Beneficiaries shared their success stories, illustrating the program’s impact. Idris Topa from Edo Central revealed that the empowerment enabled him to expand his cassava farm from 1.5 hectares to ten hectares, now employing six workers. Efe Ehanire, a Food Processor, expressed that LIFE-ND support eased her distribution challenges and improved her business Operations. Meanwhile, Osarumwense Imeutiyan, a cluster head in Utoka community, credited the program with increasing Garri production and contributing to a reduction in its price.
As Edo State enters its 2026 farming Season, the Government’s call for innovation, resilience, and active Youth participation underscores its strategic approach to transforming Agriculture into a sustainable and prosperous sector for all Stakeholders.
By Egwaoje Amarachi Linda
ACI&PRO FIC Benin
April 10th, 2026.
