The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) has disbursed N150 million to 300 farmers in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State to support food production.
Director-General of NOSDRA, Chukwuemeka Woke, announced the disbursement in Isiodu, Emohua, on Monday, stating that the initiative aligns with the Back-to-Farm program championed by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
According to Woke, the grant aims to empower smallholder farmers across the 14 wards of the local government, strengthening food security and enhancing agricultural productivity in 2025.
“This financial support will enable farmers to procure essential inputs, pay for land leases, and cover other farming needs ahead of the planting season. Our goal is to boost cassava production and ensure a bountiful harvest in 2025, which will positively impact food availability and affordability in the state,” he said.
The factional Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers, Mr. Chukwuemeka Aaron, commended the initiative, calling it a welcome step toward local food sufficiency.
Represented by the PDP secretary, Benibo George, Aaron urged beneficiaries to utilize the funds effectively to enhance food security.
Similarly, the factional Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers, Tony Okocha, described the grant as a positive development.
He emphasized that agriculture remains a key pillar of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and encouraged farmers to seize the opportunity to support the Federal Government’s food security drive.
Some beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the initiative.
One of them, Uchechukwu Otuonu, described the grant as a rare privilege for farmers in the area, highlighting its potential to improve their livelihoods.
