Umahi tasks youths on agric investment as NSSAN inaugurate Ebonyi chapter

By our reporter

Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State has called on the people of the State especially the youths to engage in Agriculture,noting that it remains a sure alternative to an oil driven economy.

The Governor who made the call during the Launching/inauguration of State Chapter/Excos of the National Sesame Seed Association of Nigeria (NSSAN)  in Abakaliki, explained that with the full participation of Nigerians in Agriculture, the Country's economy would be boosted beyond the level it is presently.

 Umahi who was represented by the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Moses Ogodo Ali Nomeh, the Governor added that as said with youths participation  in Agriculture, the rate of youth restiveness and societal vices will be reduced drastically.

"We have lots of golden opportunities in Agriculture. What we need now is an Agriculture-driven economy as oil prices are going down. Youth participation in Agriculture will boost the economy and reduce societal vices.

"There will be an enabling environment for SESAME to strive. We have a lot of opportunities in Agriculture. We encourage the young people to go into farming because there are lots of opportunities therein. Agriculture is a sure alternative to oil. We bring every information on Agriculture to the grassroot. The policy of government is one man 5 hectre."

In his remarks, the National President of the National Sesame Seed Association of Nigeria (NSSAN), Alhaji Sheriff Balogun stated that the State "is the first State in the whole Southern part of the country to successfully lunch and inaugurate her State Chapter  of this great Association."

"It is relevant and important to disclose at this point that Sesame Seed is currently the number one leading foreign exchange earner to the country's economy today. Therefore, Ebonyi State farmers decision to choose Sesame Seed ahead of all other states in the Southern part of this country is a very timely wisdom." He said.

Earlier in his speech, the state Chairman of NSSAN, Ernest Nwafor,appealed to the state government to set up an ultra-modern Sesame Seed Processing Plant in the state, adding that it will help to launch the state on national map in agricultural excellence and productivity.