FG trains tractor operators, agric equipment fabricators
No fewer than 100 personnel at the weekend were added to the agricultural sector having been trained in the areas of tractor operation and fabricating of agriculture equipment.
The personnel, drawn across the 36 states of the federation, passed through intensive one month training at National Centre for Agricultural Mechanisation (NCAM), Ilorin Kwara state.
Addressing the trainees during their passing out ceremonies, the Executive Director of the NCAM, Dr Yomi Kasali said the training given would help bridge some of the agricultural needs of the nation.
Kasali said, “At present, the agricultural sector contributes about 26.2 per cent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which is still way low for a nation which claims to be the giant of Africa.
It is therefore imperative for you to use the skill acquired here to increase productivity and participate in the growth of agriculture that will lead to stimulation of the economy through positive growth.
“Tractor operators are very scarce in the country, you are by this expected to go into agricultural production sector and make meaningful impacts.
The role of tractor operation in the agricultural development of the country is paramount, therefore, I urge you to be honest and never indulge in vices that could lead to economic losses to your employers.
You should be disciplined and safety precautions in the operation of tractors in order to avoid accident.”
Describing the training given as one of the best anywhere in dub Saharan Africa, the NCAM boss urged them to translate the acquired skill and knowledge garnered into a secured future against food insecurity and low agricultural productivity in Nigeria.
Addressing the fabricators, Kasali said their training, under the Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) remained a major sub sector of the nation’s economy which should not be toyed with if scourge of poverty would be promptly eradicated.
He added, “No nation can develop without the growth of SME’s. SMEs are the simulators of an economy. Apart from contributing to GDP, SMEs creates employment and help to stimulate socio-economy of the community where they operate.”
Urging the graduands to apply the acquired entrepreneurial skills into meaning and relevant ventures, he advised them to collaborate in order to overcome teething problems associated with new Enterprises.
He appreciated the Federal Ministry of Health, states’ ministries of agriculture ADPs and all other stakeholders for their collaboration and support, in making the program a huge success.
One of the trainees, Udeh Amos from Delta state while speaking on behalf of others, thanked the management of NCAM and their sponsors for creating conducive environment and resources for the success of the programs.
Starter packs and certificates were later given all the participants.
