2024 World Food Day: Oshimili North Local Government Area Showcases Her Rich Agricultural Produce

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October 18, 2024

By Comr. Florence Ifeanyi Chidobi

The 16th of October annually is commemorated as the World Food Day and the founding of Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO). It is a day set aside to remember the organization’s search for the solutions to the problems of hunger and poverty in the world, with the goals that young men and women should feed the world according to United Nations. Hence, 16th October, 2024, Cenotaph, Asaba, Delta State, was agog with various agricultural produce, while Oshimili North Local Government Area, ably led by the Head of Personnel Management of the council, Lady Stella Jones -Ofunne, who represented the Chairman, Hon. Innocent Ifeanyichukwu Esewezie, in company of the Head of Agricultural Department, Mrs. Mary-Joe Ogbolu among other staff, amazingly showcased the rich agricultural produce from their council, to the admiration of all and sundry and the state government in particular.

Moreover, in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Hon. Ada Val Arenyeka Esq. assured the residents of the state the farmers’ efforts toward achieving sustainable agricultural strongholds, for the eradication of hunger in the state.

Delivering his speech, however, the Acting Governor, His Excellency, Monday Onyeme, reiterated that this year’s theme: “Right to Food” is a necessity, a right not a privilege, as he stressed that everyone has right to enjoy good food at affordable price in the state.

Furthermore, the Deputy Governor x-rayed the numerous hindrances to productions of agricultural produce and promised food security in the state.

Also, According to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori “M.O.R.E AGENDA”, he highlights that “In Agricultural Sector, we shall develop the agricultural value chain, which is a major driver of the sustainable economic growths.

This administration will spare no effort to ensure that the development of agro- industrial parks is accelerated, given their potentials to generate employment opportunities, create wealth, reduce unemployment and improve food security.”

Meanwhile, declaring the activities of the 2024 World Food Day Celebration opened, the Governor enjoined every resident of the state to make farming part of their existence, to ameliorate hunger, as everyone has right to a better life and a better future.

Finally, the Governor during the tour of exhibition of the various councils of the state and their agricultural produce, expressed satisfaction at Oshimili North standard, as he applauded the sizes and weights of the numerous agricultural produce from the local government.

Highpoints of the celebration were goodwill messages from non governmental organizations, awards of prizes and sales of exhibits.

Let’s Take Responsibility of Tackling Food Insecurity, Agric Commissioner Tells Deltans

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Hill Nigeria

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October 17, 2024

In combating food challenge in the state, Deltans have been tasked to take responsibility towards transforming the food systems, Agric-business and food value chain development.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Hon, Ada Val Arenyeka made this known during the during the celebration of the 2024 World Food Day, with the theme “Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future” at the Cenotaph, Asaba.

Areyenka said the annual event which is celebrated worldwide every 16th day of October offers a platform for stakeholders to evaluate the nature and extent of world food prospects and problems and to have them put in place measures at the sub-national, national and international levels to end hunger, malnutrition and poverty and ensure food security.

He said with the definitely global hunger, security issues, climate change and distortion in supply chains which have together hampered progress in food security, there was need for government, private companies, financial institutions, farmers, civil society organizations, academia, women and youth to support farming in the state.

He revealed that the governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori since assumption to office has empowered 6,000 farmers through the Delta Cares programme and another round of support coming via the AUDA-NEPAD Programme with 2,000 farmers as beneficiaries, adding that the forth coming dry season farming was another project in perspective.

The Commissioner urged Deltans to cross-fertilize ideas, learn new approach to farming techniques and increase food production in the state where right to foods for a better life and better future is guaranteed.

Areyenka implored all stakeholders to join hands with the government to implement the MORE AGENDA where food is in surplus for consumption and exportation.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Sir Austin Oghoro urged Deltans to engage in farminig, irrespective of what they do as a means of livelihood as agriculture was the sure way to overcoming the current economic hardship in the country.

The Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme has ascribed climate change, low level of technology adoption, unwarranted attack on farmlands by unscrupulous elements, distortions in input supply chain and absence of farmer’s education as some of the challenges to food security.

He however said machineries have been put in place to ensure that farmers conducted their businesses without let or hindrances.

He said his administration was committed to encouraging smart agriculture and implementing the Delta State Government Livestock Management Law and steady supply of agricultural inputs to farmers e.g. seedlings, seeds, agro chemicals, feeds and fertilizers.

The governor said food insecurity and malnutrition are some of the specific areas that government at all levels should address to achieve zero hunger by the year 2030.

He said in realization of the object of the theme of the year’s World Food Day celebration, the State Government had set up a committee on Food Security, adding that the MANR has concluded arrangements to supply inputs to about 1,000 farmers in cassava and rice production in the next dry season farming.

He enjoined everyone to engage in one form of farming or the other, for instance crops, livestock and fisheries production, and also to utilize our savings to invest in agribusiness to boost aggregate output, ensure sustainable food supply and eliminate hunger in our land.

2024 WORLD FOOD DAY: Ukwani Local Government Takes Lead In Poultry Farming

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Hill Nigeria

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October 17, 2024

In his quest to ensure food security and sustainable food supply in Ukwuani, the Ajede led administration emerged victorious in the field of agriculture in the 2024 world Food Day Celebration held in Asaba.

At the event which aim to promote sustainable food production, emphasis were made on the importance of Agriculture and Ukwuani Local Government secured first position in poultry Farming during the event.

The success of Ukwuani Local Government at the event encouraged other Local Government Areas to prioritizes and invest in the agricultural sector.

Speaking on the victory, the Supervisory Councillor for Agriculture, Hon. Jeffrey Opone who represented the Council Chairman, Hon Barr CSP Ajede dedicated the success to all farmers in Ukwuani Local Government Area.

Mr Opone enjoined farmers in the local government to embraced agriculture, adding that the Chairman has started Farmer’s Club in Ukwuani Local Government, so that they can grow what they eat.

Also, the Head of Agric department in the Council, Comrade Odigili Able thanked the council Boss for making it possible for Ukwuani to be part of the program, while stating that Ukwuani has be performing remarkable feats since the 2022 edition of the world Food day celebration.

Two- Third Of Our Budget Will Be For Beautification Of Warri Uvwie Environs, Says Ejinyere

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Hill Nigeria

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October 15, 2024

The Director General, Warri/ Uvwie and Environs Special Area Development Agency (WUEDA), Hon. Prince Godwin Ejinyere, has said two-third of the agency’s budget will concentrate on beautification.

Ejinyere made this known while speaking with Journalists shortly after the presentation of the agency’s 2025 budget.

He said the environs in a year time will be experiencing a new look as it would no longer be the way it is today.

The DG said in achieving their vision, the agency will be working with technocrats who has good ideas that would make Warri a better place.

He said their budget which used to be eight billion; that has been jacked up to 9.5 billion was grossly inadequate, he however said they will continue to do to the best of our ability.

Our governor wants the best for the Deltans and so do I for the agency and this environment, so whenever there are issues, I know the governor will be there to provide solutions to our problem.

Speaking on the storm drainage project, he said the contractors were on top of their game, as they were making best use of dry or wet period.

“We have given them the timeline, that period is supposed to be 24 months, but I strongly believe with what we are seeing on ground, 20 months they will be done with it, they started phase one and phase two and phase three”.

“That does not mean that this storm water project will be the last, Warri is a very big place, so one step at a time. They started with phase one to phase two; phase two is already in phase three. That does not mean equally that phase two is 100 percent complete. Phase one is 100 percent ready, but phase two is not 100 percent complete”.

“We are definitely working towards finding a solution to the flood problem in Warri, Uvwie and it’s environs”, he said.

Our Company, Set To Sponsor Trips Abroad- Oziegbe

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Hill Nigeria

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October 13, 2024

In giving back to the society, the Riem Orange Global Company Limited, has provided free medical outreach to over 60 persons.

This was made known to our reporter during the community health care service organized by the company for partners and clients in Asaba.

Speaking, the Managing Director of Riem Orange Global Company Limited, Engr. Paul Oziegbe, said it was a way of extending their appreciation to the beneficiaries.

He said in doing business, it is essential to note that their priority is to ensure that their partners and clients remain healthy and alive, hence the gesture.

Oziegbe said that it is only when the mind is healthy then can there be wealthy people as one’s state of health can determines his level of wealth.

He added that productive ideas cannot emanate from anybody who is not healthy.

While outlining some of the plans the company has for partners and clients, he said they will be opportune to enjoy to offer free trips abroad to customers.

The CEO, REIM Benlomax Property, Ujomu Emmanuella said the event was designed to promote the well-being of members of the community and ensure that everyone has access to basic healthcare services, regardless of their background or financial status.

The event featured blood pressure and sugar level screening, health advice from qualified professional and real estate talk.

Ukodhiko Harps On Impact of Youth’s Inclusion in Politics

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Hill Nigeria

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October 13, 2024

…UJA Family Foundation Is Ready, If You Are Ready, Says Ukodhiko

…As JPI Delta State Assembly Holds Maiden Edition Meeting

The Founder of UJA Family Foundation, Engr. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko has harped on the need for youth involvement in politics.

Ukodhiko who was represented by Professor Peter Emaziye made this known during the maiden edition of the Jamie Pajoel International, which took place on Saturday, October 12, 2024, with the theme, ‘inspiring possibilities’, in Delta State Youth Assembly in Asaba.

He said “as digital generation , with rapid innovation their inclusion in politics is critical for the development of policies that will align with the needs of today’s developing world”.

He said that in the quest for good governance, it’s the youth at the forefront that suggests strategic and innovative reforms, adding that their participation in politics was not about representation, but about injecting new ideas, energy and fresh perspective into the political system.

Ukodhiko however expressed regret over how the socio- political structure and process in Nigeria is skewed in favour of the retired elites in the military and the economic juggernauts, as those youths who manage to participate in politics are given selective political offices.

The founder of UJA Family Foundation said without their presence in politics, the needed impact which the society yearns for can never be achieved, hence the need to push for reforms that makes it easier for them to compete on a level playing field.

Speaking the crucial role of youth in shaping the future of the state, he said their contribution to the development of the society cannot be underestimated.

According to him, the youths of the state are the present force that drives the future of the state, adding that their fresh perspective and innovative ideas drives progress as their familiarity with contemporary issues, technology and global trends allows them to propose creative solutions to local challenges.

While highlighting challenges confronting the youth, Ukodhiko said absence of adequate skills and education; financial constraints, he said inspiring them through the empowerment will encourage self reliance and entrepreneurial spirit, equip their full potential’s towards ensuring continous growth and development in themselves and their society.

Ukodhiko said there was need to critically note the sectors through which the youths can be enlightened and productively engaged so as to discover their inner purpose of empowering themselves and through themselves empowering others.

He assured them of his foundation readiness to empower them financially, if only they were ready.

Speaking the Director, UJA Family Foundation, Pastor Sunday Eluaani said financial empowerment of youths will help grow them in entrepreneural skills.

According to him, it was not the first of its kind as mentorship and empowerment is the core aim of the foundation.

He revealed that the foundation has always and continually provided for over four hundred vulnerable persons in Isoko on monthly basis, trained indigenes of Isoko in computer science and empowered them with 100 percent scholarship into the university.

Speaking earlier via Zoom, the founder of JPI, Dr. Jamie Pajoel urged the audience to draw strength from the JPI community. To always have a positive mind and be eager to learn.

In his words, the state President, Israel Ewomazino Omanudhowho said the event which was currently ongoing across 22 states in the country, was meant to empower and unite young people for innovative ideas, networking opportunities and mentorship.

Omanudhowho said the gathering of young leaders and entrepreneurs is with a vision of raising one million entrepreneurs in Nigeria.

He said 50 persons with sellable business ideas would be empowered after the event.

Those who spoke were Nehemiah Onyekaibe on the topic, capacity building; Ugagaoghene Ogheneyole, on Innovation; Nwamara Victor on resetting your mindset, Pastor Imafidion Raymond spoke on inspiring possibilities through leadership.

Highlight of the event was music performance, panel session, certificate presentation, networking amongst others.

FG’s Directive On Sale Of Crude Oil To Local Refineries In Naira, A Welcome Development – Bishop Adegbite

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Hill Nigeria

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October 11, 2024

By Celestine Toruka

The Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite, has described the Federal Government’s recent directive to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL) to sell crude oil to local refineries in naira as a welcome development.

The NCPC boss said, “This is a bold move to stabilize the economy and promote local refining.” He explained that this presupposes that the NNPCL will sell crude oil to local refineries, including the Dangote Refinery, in naira.

Interestingly, the NCPC boss maintained that the implementation of the NNPCL/Local Refineries Crude oil and Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) sale in Naira has enabled the creation of sufficient room for all interested market participants to participate in the purchase and sale of petroleum products.

He asserted that “this policy change is aimed at conserving Foreign Exchange reserves, stimulating local refining activities, and reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products.”

The Executive Secretary further outlined the benefits of this policy, which include, conservation of Foreign Exchange: by selling crude oil in Naira, Nigeria can reduce the outflow of dollars and strengthen its local currency; substantial reduction of pressure on the demand for Foreign Exchange; creation of a more conducive business environment for local refineries, incentivizing increased investments and job creation; stabilization of crude oil prices; reduced import dependency.

In order to achieve the expected outcome, the NCPC Executive Secretary advised that the Federal Government should establish a transparent and market-based pricing mechanism for Naira-denominated crude oil sales; provide adequate incentives and support to local refineries to enhance their capacity and efficiency; implement a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to assess the policy’s impact and make necessary adjustments.

Bishop Adegbite reiterated that the Federal Government’s decision to sell crude oil to local refineries in Naira is a right step in the right direction, because it is indeed a strategic move to boost the economy and promote energy independence.

The NCPC boss expressed optimism that with meticulous implementation and effective oversight, this policy will certainly have a positive impact on the nation’s economic growth and development.

Child Protection Activist, Ochei Advocates Inclusion of Moral, Sex, Entrepreneurship Policies Towards Girl-Child Education

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Hill Nigeria

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October 11, 2024

A member of the Delta State Child Rights Implementation Committee and child protection activist, Comrade Patrick Ochei has suggested to government at all levels to formulate policies geared towards conscious moral lessons, sex education and entrepreneurship training as part of the education policy for the Girl-Child in the society.

Ochei who is also a journalist, is promoting this advocacy amidst the challenges faced by girl children when they are not morally sound to handle some pressures associated with female development in today’s society, revealing that irresponsible men are always on the prowl looking for girl children to devour.

He said by putting the girls through moral lessons, sex education and entrepreneurship training consciously and early in life, the tendencies of being better informed about life, its prospects and challenges would be high.

The journalist further affirmed that when girls are brought up on high moral standards where they know the dangers of early sex and giving-in to sexual pressures by peers, including being productively engaged in skills alongside their formal education, they tend to be strong enough to withstand pressures of social vices and moral decadence that tend to derail them in life.

Ochei recounted that indecent dressing, craze for money, clubbing and reckless lifestyle generally are gradually taking over the girl children as beautiful creatures of God, insisting that except something urgent is done by government and faith based organizations, the trend would go on unabated

Additionally, Ochei advised that “The Girl-Child must be vocal and cultivate the culture of speaking out when molested by irresponsible men in the society. The female gender is naturally a prey to men, not to talk about girl children who are most times vulnerable and can easily succumb to intimidation, especially after being abused.

“Parents must help in this circumstance by ensuring that their girl children know about sex early in life. They must be taught how to protect themselves against sexual harassment and scream for help where necessary.

“In all of these, there must be conscious policy of government to protect the Girl-Child. A lot of people are getting off the hook after breaking the Child Rights law. There must be justice for the Girl-Child who is abused and the law must always punish offenders of the law no matter their status in the society.

“In this regard, I appeal to Delta State House of Assembly to expedite action on the Child Rights Amendment Bill, 2024, to further strengthen it to meet up with the current realities in dealing with issues of child protection. The federal government must also look into areas of the Child Rights Act of 2003 that need strengthening for optimal protection of the Girl-Child.

“I strongly believe that the way we handle the Girl-Child in Nigerian society would definitely play a huge role in how we curtail future crimes and criminalities. This is because, from the girl you have a woman who eventually becomes the trainer of both the male and the female leaders in the society. When a Girl-Child blossoms into a proper woman and decent mother, she would parent responsible leaders that are capable of managing the affairs of our nation. Proper womanhood is all about responsible nationhood”, Ochei posited.