The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), through its corporate social responsibility arm, the NNPC Foundation, has trained over 3,000 vulnerable farmers in the North-East region of Nigeria on modern agricultural techniques and market access strategies, as part of its nationwide farmer empowerment programme.
The initiative, which has already reached over 11,000 farmers across all six geopolitical zones, aims to equip women and youth farmers with the skills and tools needed to transition from subsistence farming to commercially viable agriculture.
Training Flagged Off in Yobe and Gombe States
The North-East phase of the programme was officially flagged off in two locations—Potiskum, Yobe State, and Kaltungo, Gombe State. Speaking at the event, Managing Director of the NNPC Foundation, Mrs. Emmanuel Arukwe, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to securing Nigeria’s food future and uplifting rural communities through agricultural empowerment.
Represented by the Executive Director of Programme Development, Dr. Bala David, Arukwe stated:
“This programme is about more than farming; it’s about national development, food security, and building resilient communities. We’re proud to support our farmers—especially women and young people—who are the backbone of rural economies.”
Modules Focused on Climate-Smart and Sustainable Agriculture
Participants in the two-day training received hands-on instruction in climate-smart agriculture, soil management techniques, post-harvest handling and storage, financial literacy and savings, Cooperative formation and the use of digital tools for market access.
Dr. David encouraged participants to be proactive in applying the knowledge gained:
“The future of Nigeria’s agriculture does not only depend on what we teach, but what you practice, share, and adapt within your communities and cooperatives.”
Community and Government Leaders Commend Initiative
Representatives of local government and traditional authorities praised the initiative for its grassroots impact. Speaking at the Potiskum venue, Deputy Chairman of Potiskum LGA, Alhaji Hamza Nngojin, who represented Chairman Alhaji Salisu Muntari, said:
“Farming is the most sustainable path out of poverty for our people. We welcome any intervention that helps strengthen our agricultural base.”
He added that the Yobe State Government remains open to humanitarian partnerships in key sectors including education, healthcare, and agriculture.
Participants Express Gratitude, Call for Continued Support
Some of the participants, including Martina Yuhanna and Baturiya Dogon Yaro, expressed gratitude to NNPCL Foundation and the facilitators for the training and knowledge imparted. They also called on the state government to provide more support for smallholder farmers to help achieve a hunger-free society.
Stakeholder Support Recognized
The NNPCL Foundation acknowledged the support of government agencies, traditional and religious leaders, development partners and facilitators and trainers.
The event, held at the Banquet Hall of the Federal College of Education, Potiskum, was well attended by farmers, youth groups, women, and various stakeholders in the agriculture and development sectors.
