The Cross River State Government, through Project Grow and in partnership with Flour Mills Nigeria, has commenced a practical demonstration training for farmers on agronomic soybean cultivation as part of efforts to enhance food production, create sustainable livelihoods and strengthen the state's agricultural economy.
The training programme is currently being piloted in Calabar, Yakurr and Obanliku Local Government Areas, covering the Southern, Central and Northern Senatorial Districts of the state.
Speaking at the flag off ceremony, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Johnson Ebokpo, described commercial agriculture as a key priority of the administration of Governor Bassey Otu. He noted that soybean cultivation holds significant economic potential and can serve as a reliable source of income for families and communities while contributing to the state's Internally Generated Revenue.
Ebokpo said the practical training was designed to equip farmers with modern cultivation techniques capable of increasing productivity and improving yields. He added that the programme would be extended to more communities across the state to ensure grassroots farmers benefit from the initiative.
The Director of Project Growth, Dennis Ikali, attributed the successes recorded by the agency to the commitment of Governor Bassey Otu to agricultural development and the support provided by the Ministry of Agriculture. He expressed optimism that the training would have a lasting impact on soybean production across the state.
During a field demonstration session, agricultural experts, including Kolawole Akinsowon and the Programme Manager of the Cross River Agricultural Development Programme (CRADP), Bassey Enang, highlighted the suitability of Cross River's fertile soil for the cultivation of soybeans, cocoa, oil palm, groundnut and cassava.
They encouraged participants to take advantage of the free training opportunity by applying the knowledge gained to improve productivity and achieve better harvests at the end of the farming season.
The training featured hands on demonstrations on soybean cultivation techniques and interactive question and answer sessions aimed at addressing farmers' concerns and improving their understanding of best agricultural practices.
Agriculture stakeholders believe the initiative will not only increase soybean production in Cross River but also contribute to food security, job creation and economic growth in rural communities across the state.
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