The Delta State Government, in fulfilment of it’s avowed pledge to enhance food security in the state has embarked on a farmers support scheme from which over 12, 000 farmers across crops, livestock, and fisheries have benefitted from the state government.
This disclosure was made by the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Val Arenyeka Esq., while speaking during the 2025 World Food Day Celebration, at the Cenotaph, Asaba, on Thursday, October 16, 2025.
Barr. Arenyeka revealed that the beneficiaries have already been verified to ensure that government support reaches genuine farmers.
According to him, the support was to help achieve food security and sustainable agricultural growth through the implementation of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E Agenda.
He said the global event was an important reminder of the need for collective action in tackling hunger, improving food systems, and promoting healthy diets.
The theme for the year’s celebration, “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future,” she said, underscores the critical role of collaboration among governments, communities, and farmers in ensuring sustainable food production systems.
“The theme reminds us of the central role that food plays, not just as a source of nourishment, but as the backbone of our economy, health, and collective future,” Arenyeka stated. “By working together, we can build agrifood systems that are more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient.”
The Commissioner highlighted the strides made by the Oborevwori-led administration in revitalizing the agricultural sector through several impactful initiatives. She noted that under the M.O.R.E Agenda, the state government has scaled up cassava and rice production at Aviara, established greenhouse projects across the state to promote all-season farming, and introduced homestead farming for civil servants to boost household food production.
In addition, the state, in collaboration with the Federal Government, has distributed fertilizers and farming inputs through various associations and cooperatives. Under the LIFE-ND Project, hundreds of youths and women across ten local government areas have been empowered in key agricultural value chains such as cassava, poultry, oil palm, and fisheries.
Similarly, through the FADAMA Programme, over 16,000 beneficiaries have received support, including inputs, training, and extension services.
The Commissioner encouraged farmers to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices to mitigate the effects of climate change and flooding, urging them to plant short-gestation crops, use irrigation where possible, and take advantage of weather forecasts provided by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET). She further advised all farmers to insure their enterprises against risks.
“We will continue to expand greenhouse farming, boost agricultural production, deepen support for irrigation and mechanized farming, and strengthen our farmer database for accountability,” Arenyeka assured.
He expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for his consistent support of agricultural programmes and initiatives in the state.
The Commissioner also announced that prizes would be awarded to outstanding farmers and exhibitors, while members of the public were encouraged to purchase farm products displayed at the event at affordable prices.
Concluding her address, Arenyeka urged all stakeholders to remain steadfast in their commitment to building a food-secure Delta State and a hunger-free Nigeria.
“As we celebrate this year’s World Food Day, let us remember that the actions we take today will shape the food systems of tomorrow. Let us join hands for better food and a better future,” she said.
The highlight of the event was the formal declaration of the 2025 World Food Day celebration open by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
