From: Rose Ejembi, Makurdi.
Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has announced the willingness of his administration to partner with more stakeholders in the development of the value chain for various agriculture produce in the state.
The Governor disclosed this, on Thursday, when he hosted a delegation from the Bill and Melinda Foundation at the Old Banquet Hall of the Benue Peoples House, Makurdi.
According to him, “We assure you of our sustained commitment and willingness to accept other partners that you may introduce to us. Benue State is willing to tap from your knowledge in the cultivation, harvesting, processing and marketing to support us add value to our farm produce and generate wealth for our people.”
Ortom commended the support of the Foundation in the development of the value chain for cassava and rice and appealed that it should be extended to other crops.
The Governor who noted that Benue, with its enormous arable land and two rivers, had comparative and competitive advantage in the agriculture sector which he said his administration was determined to explore to the fullest in fulfillment of his campaign promises.
Earlier in a remarks, leader of the delegation, Dr Audu Yerima, explained that the objectives of the Foundation’s intervention was to assist the state formulate policy, develop market linkages, support capacity building and boost women empowerment.
He commended the enthusiasm and commitment of the state government and other stakeholders in the execution of the program and thanked the Governor for what he described as warm reception accorded the delegation.