The Adamawa State Government, through the Adamawa State Agribusiness Support Programme (ADAS-P), has trained women on backyard vegetable farming as part of efforts to enhance household food security and promote economic empowerment.
The initiative, implemented in collaboration with Benue Valley Farms, brought together women from various organisations across the state for a hands-on training aimed at equipping them with practical skills in organic home gardening.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor of Adamawa State, Prof. Kaletapwa G. Farauta, lauded the organisers for targeting women, describing the initiative as timely and impactful. She urged the beneficiaries to step down the training in their respective communities and to utilise the knowledge gained to improve their livelihoods.
“Backyard farming is a sustainable way for women to support their families and generate income. This initiative aligns with our vision of inclusive growth and gender empowerment,” the Deputy Governor said.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the ADAS Board of Directors, Alhaji Kashim Njidda, reiterated the commitment of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s administration to inclusive development, saying the programme reflects the government’s resolve to ensure that “nothing is left untouched, and no one is left behind.”
In their separate remarks, the Chief Operating Officer of ADAS, Alhaji Yunusa Ibrahim Gafai, and a member of the programme’s advisory team, Hajiya Asma’u Joda, emphasised the central role women play in the economic development of society. They noted that empowering women in agriculture is key to strengthening household resilience and community prosperity.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Madam Rita Ciscilia (Mrs. Aminu) expressed gratitude to the government and organisers, saying the training has equipped them with vital knowledge they intend to share with other women.
Themed “Promoting Backyard Organic Farming for Inclusive Business Growth and Export,” the training drew participants from various groups, including the Centre for Women and Adolescent Empowerment, Adamawa Women Agro-processors, Federal College of Education (FCE) Yola, Adamawa State Polytechnic Yola, and others.
At the end of the programme, each participant received a starter pack containing essential materials to commence backyard vegetable farming immediately.
