Cross River State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Edema Irom, has announced plans to use agriculture as a means to empower women in the state. This initiative is part of a deliberate effort to alleviate poverty and reduce the state’s dependence on federal allocations NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
During the 2023 Apiapum New Yam Festival held in Apiapum, Obubra Local Government Area, Hon. Irom emphasized the immense potential of agriculture in Cross River. She stated that if fully harnessed, agriculture could transform the state’s socio-economic landscape and lead to a reduction in dependency on federal funds.
Governor Bassey Otu’s administration is already taking steps to modernize agriculture and make it more attractive for both farmers and the government. Hon. Irom assured women, who constitute a significant portion of farmers in the area, that they would soon receive improved seedlings and tubers as part of a government palliative initiative. She encouraged these women to form cooperative unions to access government-funded facilities, including funds and modern farming inputs, for increased yields.
Hon. Irom stressed the importance of empowering women through agriculture, stating that when women are economically empowered, it positively impacts their households, leading to better and more decent livelihoods.
She stated, “Government will leverage platforms like this and other social gatherings of women to educate them on the need to venture into active agriculture and empower them with improved seedlings and tubers for maximum economic gains.”
The Commissioner for Commerce, Mrs. Abigail Duke, also attended the event and commended the people of Apiapum for organizing a colorful celebration that showcased the community’s rich cultural heritage. She encouraged unity among the people, highlighting the government’s plans to commercialize agriculture in the state and urging more women and youths to participate in the agricultural revolution initiated by Governor Otu.
His Royal Highness, Ovarr Robert Mbina Ajom lll, the clan head of Apiapum, expressed his appreciation for the government’s presence at the event. He requested assistance for subsistence farmers, including modern farm implements, improved seedlings, tubers, and affordable access to farming inputs like fertilizer and pesticides to ensure better yields in the next farming season.
