By Bilesanmi Abayomi
Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, FCA, facilitated the distribution of fully vaccinated chickens, feeds, and cages to more than 100 constituents shortlisted for the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) Home Growing Poultry Empowerment Scheme.
The initiative, falling under the Facilitations/Empowerment pillar of Senator Abiru’s legislative agenda, aims to empower aspiring entrepreneurs in poultry farming. The recipients not only received tangible resources but also underwent comprehensive training by industry experts on effective poultry management strategies.
Expressing enthusiasm about the partnership, NALDA’s Chief Executive Officer/Executive Secretary, Prince Paul Ikonne, represented by Engr. Olusegun Owolabi, emphasized the alignment of the initiative with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, focusing on agricultural development and food security.
Mr. Enitan Olukotun, the media aide to Senator Abiru, praised President Tinubu’s visionary leadership and highlighted the impactful contributions of Senator Abiru in various sectors, including agriculture, MSME support, infrastructure development, and community empowerment.
Notable achievements such as the provision of hand planters and grants to rural farmers, empowerment of market women, and facilitation of MSME grants underscored Senator Abiru’s commitment to holistic community development.
Speaking at the event, Olukotun urged parents to encourage their wards to explore opportunities at the SAIL Innovation Lab, founded by Senator Abiru and his wife, Mrs. Feyisola, where over 100 youths recently secured well-paid artificial intelligence jobs.
Gratitude resonated among beneficiaries of the Home Growing Poultry Scheme, with Mariam Olatoyosi expressing deep appreciation for the support that will significantly boost her poultry business. Oladejo Oluwaseun from Epe Local Government recognized the initiative as a potent tool to combat poverty, echoing the sentiment of fellow farmer Adesina Oluwafemi from Ikorodu, who urged more youth to embrace agriculture as a fulfilling career path.