The Federal Government on Saturday inaugurated the Renewed Hope Agriculture Empowerment Project for Internally Displaced Persons (REHAEPI).
The first phase of the project, a part of numerous interventions by the government to boost food security in the country, took place in Loko community in Nasarawa State.
Speaking at the event, Alhaji Tijani Ahmed, the Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMIDP), said the first phase of the project targeted 1, 000 IDPs farmers across the three states of Nasarawa, Borno and Plateau.
Specifically, he said no fewer than 300 IDPs would be empowered with farm tools and grants in Nasarawa state.
“We are here to kick-start a revolutionary scheme that will turn the fortunes of our resilient displaced populations from that despair to hope, productivity, self sufficiency and wealth.
“We are confident that this collaboration will lead to increased income generation and economic independence for families of IDPs through farming activities.
“The beneficiaries will be economically empowered through agricultural skills and knowledge transfer, high income generation and improved food security and nutrition,” he said.
According to him, the project will create sustainable livelihood opportunities for IDP women and youths, leading to long-term resilience and self-reliance.
Ahmed, urged the beneficiaries to utilise the opportunity effectively while wishing them a successful farming and bumper harvest.
On his part, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, said that the project was not only remarkable but apt.
“It is a comprehensive initiative designed to empower IDPs to enable them be self-reliant.
“They have endured unimaginable hardship. This project will help them rebuild their lives and contribute positively to the development of the country,” Kyari said.
He, therefore, called on the general public to embrace the spirit of support so as to build a strong, prosperous and resilient economy for all Nigerians.
“Together we can make a significant impact in the lives of the displaced persons in our society,” he added.
The Chairman, Nasarawa Local Government Council, Mohammed Otto, appreciated the federal government for the initiative and appealed for good road network in the farming areas.
Otto said that the State is the largest cassava producer in the country and welcomed any support or good initiatives that would boost agriculture.
The project was initiated by NCFRMIDP in conjunction with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.