The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) has flagged off a comprehensive Agriculture Support Programme Workshop in Rivers State to equip farmers, women, students, and small-scale entrepreneurs with modern, sustainable agricultural skills aimed at boosting productivity and food security.
The workshop, which began on Friday at the Ministry of Justice Auditorium in Port Harcourt, was formally declared open by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, represented by the wife of the Rivers State Governor, Lady Valerie Siminalayi Fubara.
In her opening remarks, Lady Fubara described agriculture as a vital enterprise that requires both commitment and knowledge. She urged participants to make the most of the training, noting that it serves as a build-up to the Agricultural Empowerment Programme slated for Tuesday, October 14, 2025.
“I want to see how participants are being prepared for the upcoming agri-empowerment next Tuesday,” she said. “Please take every lecture seriously because it will help your business. Those in poultry or crop production will learn how to better care for their livestock and crops. Knowledge is key to empowerment.”
The workshop featured technical sessions on crop production, livestock management, and poultry farming, offering participants practical insights designed to enhance productivity and ensure sustainable agricultural growth in the state.
Delivering a keynote address titled “General Smart Agriculture in Relation to the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI),” the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Port Harcourt, Prof. Udensi Udensi—represented by Prof. Joseph Orluchukwu—emphasized the importance of innovation and technology in transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.
He explained that adopting smart and efficient farming techniques remains critical in tackling food insecurity, especially in rapidly growing economies.
“Traditional farming methods have struggled to meet rising food demands. However, the adoption of innovative tools and smart farming practices is a game-changer,” he said.
“Government must also implement supportive policies, provide subsidies for essential tools like seeds and irrigation systems, and invest in infrastructure. Strong partnerships between government, the private sector, and NGOs are essential for empowering farmers with education, resources, and support.”
The RHI’s Agriculture Support Programme is part of a nationwide empowerment drive championed by the Office of the First Lady to promote self-reliance, empower local farmers and entrepreneurs, and strengthen food production capacity across Nigeria.
