Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue state Thursday launched the Solar-Powered Irrigation Pumps Initiative, a groundbreaking project aimed at empowering smallholder farmers with sustainable technology for year-round farming and increased productivity.
The launch was marked by
signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Benue state Government and Heifer International, marking a significant step in transforming agriculture in the state.
The representative of the Governor, Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Prof. Moses Ogbaji, and Heifer International Nigeria’s Country Director, signed the MoU.
The event also signaled the commencement of Heifer International’s activities in Benue state, facilitated by the Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD).
Prof. Ogbaji who represented the Benue state government described the collaboration as a strategic milestone in advancing Governor Alia’s agricultural revolution agenda.
He emphasised that the solar-powered irrigation pumps would provide farmers with a sustainable solution to overcome erratic rainfall and high costs of traditional irrigation methods.
“Governor Alia’s administration prioritizes agricultural modernization as a driver of economic growth, rural development, and food security. The partnership with Heifer International represents a significant step forward in achieving sustainable food security and rural development across the state,” he added.
In his remarks, the Director General of the Bureau for International Cooperation and Development (BICD) Leo Angelo Viashima, underscored the importance of a collaborative approach in driving development initiatives in the state.
He emphasised the significance of formalizing commitments between partners and the state government through MoUs, which serve as a foundation for impactful partnerships.
He further highlighted the Bureau’s role in creating an enabling environment for development partners to thrive in Benue State.
Heifer International Nigeria, Country Director expressed enthusiasm about commencing operations in Benue State. The Country Director noted that the organisation’s mission aligns seamlessly with the governor’s vision of empowering farmers, increasing resilience, and fostering inclusive economic growth.
The launch featured live demonstrations of the solar-powered irrigation pumps, interactive sessions with farmers, and an overview of how the initiative will be scaled across rural areas in Benue. Farmers in attendance praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to enhance productivity and transform their livelihoods.