The National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF) has donated 25 water-pumping machines to farmers in Taraba State.
This is part of a pilot program of the agency to provide vital agricultural equipment to support dry-season farmers across the federation and address their irrigation-related challenges.
The Executive Secretary of the agency, Tosin Adeyanju represented by Assistant Director, Monitoring and Evaluation, Sagir Mohd, while addressing the beneficiaries, said the agency was demonstrating its unwavering commitment to empowering rural communities through sustainable agricultural development.
He noted: “This donation of water-pumping machines, aligns with our mission to promote good causes for citizens, communities, and the downtrodden across the country, thereby enhancing food security, economic growth and poverty reduction.
“Over the years, we have intervened in various areas in Taraba State, including; the provision of sports equipment to 59 public primary schools, first-aid boxes and kits to 9 public secondary schools, vital medical equipment to the General Hospital, Bali, as well as the support given by the agency to several women empowerment programs, and the provision of empowerment materials for women and youth in Taraba”
Adeyanju noted that the importance of irrigation in improving agricultural production, addressing water scarcity, boosting crop yields, and enhancing farmers’ resilience to climate change.
He added: “Irrigation is crucial for improving agricultural production, addressing water scarcity, boosting crop yields, and enhancing farmers’ resilience to climate change. These machines will address some irrigation-related challenges farmers face, in order to increase their productivity, income and overall well-being.”, he stated.
” Today’s donation marks the beginning of a new chapter in our partnership with Taraba State farmers. We look forward to witnessing the transformative impacts of these pumping machines and exploring opportunities for further collaboration during dry season farming. “
In his remarks, Hon. Nassir Muhammed, who spoke on behalf of the Gassol Local Government Chairman commended the agency for the initiative.
He said: “The distribution of pumping machines to our farmers will revolutionise agricultural production in our region, and we look forward to witnessing the transformative impacts it will have on our communities.”
“We are confident that these machines will revolutionise our farming practices, reduce our reliance on rainfall, and make us more resilient to climate change. We assure the NLTF that we will make the most of this donation and ensure the machines are properly maintained and utilised.”