
Hon. Victor Omofaiye has held a meeting in his office and engaged in a productive discussion with the critical stakeholders in Palm kernel and cashew associations.
The meeting focused on strategies to strengthen the agricultural sector, with particular emphasis on Kogi State’s notable commodity, cashew and Palm kernel production.
Hon. Omofaiye highlighted the critical roles of the Agency KOSCEPA to collaborate with the cashew farmers association, cashew processors association, cashew merchants association, of Kogi East Chapter.
He stressed that Kogi State shared border with nine states including the FCT, which is a good opportunity for farmers to make use of it by not allowing the off-takers to overtake what should be of benefits to the state.
He further emphasized the commitment of the current administration under the Governor Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo who has prioritized agriculture as a key sector for the growth and development of the State.
The Director-General noted that the State Government has taken deliberate steps to support farmers by distributing thousands of fertilizers and farming equipment across the state.
He stressed that achieving agriculture goals would require continued investment in infrastructure and training programs.
In response, the representatives of the Association led by Alhaji Ichapi Mohammed, Exporters of Cashew products, Mr. Samson Ochem, Chairman Merchants Association and Audu Yunisa of Cashew Processors Association assured Hon. Omofaiye of the readiness to collaborate with KOSCEPA.
He further stated that the Agency is what the State has been lacking for a long time, and with the creation of KOSCEPA, there will be proper arrangement on how to export commodities originating from Kogi State like Cashew and Palm kernel out of the State.
He acknowledged that agriculture remains the backbone of Kogi State and Nigeria at large, and initiatives like this could significantly strengthen food security, create Job opportunity and contribute to economic growth.
At the end of the meeting, both the Agency and the relevant stakeholders from Palm kernel and cashew processors, cashew merchants association agreed to work closely to improve the sector.
They also resolved to utilize opportunity provided by the government through KOSCEPA, and contribute meaningfully to the GDP, in line with the vision of the Governor of Kogi State. Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo.