The Chairman of Isoko South Local Government Area, Hon. Comrade Warri Ovoke Friday, has officially launched a major Cassava farming initiative to tackle food insecurity in Delta, tagged Warri Agro Care Scheme, aimed at accelerating cassava production across the region.
The initiative, flagged off during a well-attended seminar, aligns with the Delta State Government’s M.O.R.E. agenda championed by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. According to Warri, the program is part of his “Warri for Your Worries” campaign promise, centered on economic expansion through agribusiness and rural empowerment.
“Isoko South is blessed with rich soil and a proud farming heritage,” he said. “No true Isoko child grows up without knowing what cassava leaves look like. We’re building on that legacy not just to feed ourselves, but to turn agriculture into a sustainable source of livelihood.”
The training, which targets farmers from across the LGA, focuses on modern cassava cultivation techniques, access to quality seeds, and partnerships with agricultural stakeholders. Warri emphasized that this is not just a one-time intervention but part of a long-term strategy to ensure food surplus and economic self-reliance for the people.
He also revealed that his administration has already launched a pilot project in pepper farming to complement cassava cultivation, reinforcing his commitment to making Isoko South the food basket of Delta State.
Earlier, the chairman received the leadership of the Association of Cassava Seed Entrepreneurs Network (ASCEN), led by its President, Rev. Mrs. Eboka, who lauded the council’s proactive move. She described the initiative as a game-changer for grassroots agriculture, praising Warri for giving rural farmers a voice and a path to profitability.
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“Isoko people are natural-born farmers. Our network reaches even the most remote villages to deliver grants, quality seeds, and training,” Rev. Eboka said. “This program will give Isoko South a competitive edge in cassava production and position it as a key player in Nigeria’s food chain.”
She further assured participants that ASCEN’s improved cassava seeds will yield tangible results, emphasizing the economic potential for farmers who embrace the opportunity.
The event was further enriched by the presence of Prof. Ovharhe Oghenero Joseph, who delivered a keynote address before farmers were presented with high-quality cassava stems. The training session provided hands-on instruction on improved farming practices, empowering attendees with knowledge and tools to scale their agribusiness.
Hon. Abedi Goodluck, the Supervising Councillor for Agriculture, expressed heartfelt appreciation to ASCEN for investing in the development of Isoko South farmers, stressing that the program would unlock new opportunities for food sufficiency and economic growth.
