• NIHORT Commends Senator’s Commitment to Agricultural Development

Senator Saliu Mustapha, representing Kwara Central in the National Assembly, has initiated a multi-million naira capacity-building and empowerment programme aimed at equipping youth and women in his constituency with skills in dry season farming and the horticultural value chain.

The programme, which commenced today at the Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority in Ilorin, is conducted in partnership with the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT) and Gemstone Integrated Farm Nigeria Ltd. Senator Mustapha, represented by his legislative aide, Tunde Abdulkadir, noted that the training would not only impart technical skills but also provide practical insights into the horticultural industry.

“Our goal is to ensure that participants from Kwara Central’s four local governments are empowered with the tools and knowledge necessary to enhance their livelihoods through agriculture,” Senator Mustapha said. He assured attendees that, beyond the training, they would be provided with the resources needed to apply their new skills effectively.

Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Joel Akindele Akinfasoye, NIHORT representative, described the programme as a “rare opportunity,” noting that each participant is receiving a training that would typically cost hundreds of thousands. “Senator Mustapha’s dedication to empowering his constituents is commendable, and I urge him to keep up his impactful work,” Dr. Joel said, encouraging participants to make the most of the training.

One of the beneficiaries, Abdulrasaq Fatimah from Asa Local Government, praised Senator Mustapha’s efforts in supporting local agriculture. “This training will enable me to become self-employed and create new income streams,” she shared.

Another participant, Aduagaba Faruq Olaitan from Ilorin South, added that the training had already provided him with valuable insights into dry season farming, horticulture techniques, and ways to maximize yield. “I pray God grants Senator Mustapha continued wisdom as he serves Kwara Central,” he said.