Farmers and agricultural stakeholders have hailed the Federal Government’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda Support Programme Phase-One (ATASP-1) for its transformative impact on combating food insecurity in Nigeria. Beneficiaries across Enugu and Anambra states have applauded the programme, funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB), for its infrastructure development, capacity-building initiatives, and support for rural farmers and processors.
During a tour of project sites in the Adani-Omor Zonal Programme Implementation Unit, led by officials from AfDB and the Federal Ministries of Agriculture, Finance, and Water Resources, beneficiaries shared glowing testimonies of how ATASP-1 has positively influenced their lives. Chief Bernard Idu, a lead farmer in Adani, Enugu State, expressed gratitude for the revitalization of the moribund Ada Rice Irrigation System and the construction of the Obinna Bridge. He recounted how the collapsed bridge had previously made it nearly impossible for farmers to transport their produce, leading to significant losses.
Idu highlighted that with the newly completed concrete canal, farmers are now equipped for year-round irrigation farming, including the upcoming dry season. Similarly, the Chairman of Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, Chief Chijioke Ezugwu, commended the quality of infrastructure provided and pledged continued support to ensure their optimal utilization and the security of farmers.
In Adani, the delegation inspected key projects, including the 22.45-kilometer concrete-lined Ada Rice Irrigation System, which is expected to revolutionize dry-season rice farming. The Obinna Bridge, now a critical access point to irrigation farms, a modern rice market at Adani, and a cottage hospital in Asaba, were also among the impressive projects completed under the programme.
In neighboring Anambra State, the tour continued with a visit to the Lower Anambra Irrigation Project (LAIP) pumping station in Ifite-Ogwari and the ongoing 44.1-kilometer concrete-lining canal project in Omor. Beneficiaries in Ayamelum Local Government Area praised ATASP-1 for its significant contribution to improving their livelihoods.
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Rice farmer and processor Chief Obiora Mmuoneke testified that the programme’s training on Good Agronomic Practices (GAPs) enabled him to expand his business, build a six-room bungalow, and sponsor three of his children through university. Similarly, Mrs. Gloria Udemezue shared how the programme helped her increase her farmland from two to six hectares, start producing snacks from rice flour, and achieve financial independence, allowing her to build a house and educate her four children.
Dr. Romanus Egba, Zonal Coordinator of ATASP-1 Adani-Omor Zone, emphasized the programme’s mission to empower farmers with the tools and knowledge needed for sustainable agricultural practices. He noted that ATASP-1 has also provided essential social and economic infrastructure to improve the beneficiaries’ living standards.
National Programme Coordinator Dr. Ibrahim Arabi praised the programme as a game-changer in addressing Nigeria’s food insecurity, while AfDB Task Team Manager Dr. Tobi Karikari expressed satisfaction with the results achieved so far. Karikari encouraged farmers to maximize the benefits of the facilities and training provided, urging them to contribute to building a stronger and more food-secure society.
ATASP-1’s success stories in Enugu and Anambra States highlight its critical role in revitalizing agriculture, empowering rural communities, and creating a blueprint for tackling food insecurity across Nigeria.
