News in Brief:
– NALDA launched a project in Borno State providing housing, training, and startup kits to internally displaced persons, aiming to empower youths, create jobs, and boost food security.
– The project, targeting 250,000 youth nationwide, collaborates with existing farmers and offers training in various agricultural activities.
The National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) inaugurated 120 housing units and an agricultural training center in Borno State to address both food security and unemployment, a local news outlet reports.
NALDA Executive Secretary Prince Paul Ikonne emphasized the project’s goal of encouraging young Nigerians to pursue agriculture. He explained that farmers will receive housing and training, followed by startup kits to launch their own agricultural businesses. This initiative aims to reduce unemployment and contribute to national food security.
Furthermore, Ikonne stated that NALDA collaborates with existing farmers who receive support and train new participants. The project will expand to all states, encouraging participation from both the government and private individuals.
There are segmented facilities such as fish ponds, poultry houses, animal pens, and a training center for women and youths. The beneficiaries, primarily internally displaced persons (IDPs), received the project with enthusiasm.
Ikonne highlighted the creation of job opportunities through diverse agricultural activities, with a target of empowering 250,000 young Nigerians nationwide in the initial phase.
Borno State Governor Professor Babagana Zulum praised NALDA for choosing the state for the pilot programme and emphasized its potential to aid returning IDPs affected by conflict. He offered land to interested agricultural investors and commended NALDA’s efforts to create employment and improve livelihoods.
