In a major initiative aimed at boosting agricultural productivity in Nigeria’s North East region, the National Lottery Trust Fund has launched its pilot program by donating 25 water-pumping machines to farmers in Taraba State.
The donation is part of a broader effort to address irrigation challenges faced by dry-season farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices to enhance crop yields, food security, and economic growth.
Representing the Executive Secretary/CEO of the NLTF, Comrade Tosin Adeyanju, Mallam Sagir Ahmed Mohd, Assistant Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, addressed the beneficiaries at the event, emphasising the importance of the donation.
Adeyanju said, “We are committed to empowering rural communities through sustainable agricultural development. This donation aligns with our mission to support good causes across the country, ensuring food security, economic growth, and poverty reduction.”
The donation follows a series of previous NLTF interventions in Taraba, including the provision of sports equipment to public schools, medical supplies to local hospitals, and support for women and youth empowerment programs in the state.
Adeyanju stressed the critical role of irrigation in enhancing agricultural productivity, reducing water scarcity, and making farmers more resilient to the impacts of climate change.
“Irrigation is crucial for improving agricultural production and ensuring consistent crop yields throughout the year.
“These water-pumping machines will help tackle irrigation-related challenges faced by farmers, boosting productivity and increasing income opportunities.”
Adeyanju also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his vision of a transformed Nigeria, which prioritises rural development and agricultural advancement.
“We thank President Tinubu for his leadership and commitment to agricultural growth, which motivates us to continue our work in empowering communities across the country.”
In his remarks, Nassir Muhammed, speaking on behalf of the Chairman of Gassol Local Government, lauded the initiative as a game-changer for the region.
“This donation will revolutionise our farming practices and reduce our dependence on rainfall, enabling us to grow crops all year round,” he said.
“We are confident that these machines will enhance our resilience to climate change and improve the livelihoods of our farmers.”
Mohammed Lawali Lau, one of the farmers who benefited from the donation, expressed his gratitude to the NLTF for the water-pumping machines.
“This donation is a blessing for us,” he said.
“With these machines, we can now farm during the dry season, increase our crop yields, and have a consistent supply of fresh produce in the market. This will lead to more income for our families and a better quality of life for our communities.”
Lau also said that the initiative would stimulate local economic growth, create jobs, and contribute to achieving food security in the state.
“We are excited about the opportunities these machines will bring, and we promise to use them wisely to ensure lasting benefits for our farms and communities,” he added.
The NLTF’s pilot program in Taraba marks a new chapter in the organization’s efforts to improve rural livelihoods through sustainable agricultural practices.
With this initiative, the NLTF hopes to foster long-term growth and resilience in the face of climate change, while supporting the government’s broader vision of inclusive economic development.
