Rice Production: Nigeria To Attain Self-Sufficiency By End Of 2017 – Minister

Published

7 years ago

August 29, 2017

Rice Production, Nigeria, Self-Sufficiency

Chief Audu Ogbeh, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, on Monday, said that Nigeria would attain self-sufficiency in rice production by the end of 2017.

Ogbeh gave this assurance at the First International Cocoa Summit, organised by the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment in collaboration with Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Abuja.

He noted that rice production had improved tremendously across the country as a result of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP).

Ogbeh said the programme had supported farmers through inputs distribution and loans to boost rice production across the country.

According to him, rice is one major staple food that almost every Nigerian citizen consumes.

He said that the move was in line with President Muhammadu Buhari’s agenda to diversify the economy through the agriculture sector.

The minister, however, advised rice farmers to reduce the price of a tonne of paddy from N150, 000 to N120, 000 to make it affordable for millers and discourage smuggling.

READ: Osun Govt Sells Rams To Citizens From N45, 000

“By the end of this year, we can tell you that we are self-sufficient in rice.

He expressed regrets on the increasing number of malnourished children across the country.

On cocoa, Ogbeh said the Federal Government, through his ministry, would encourage land clearing, fertiliser application through extension workers to promote the production.

“We are planning a re-launch of cocoa to draw national attention to its strategic importance but the big thing is to help processors at home and increase consumption.

“Everything is not about export, nowadays, the export market is choked and therefore, forcing prices down while farmers are losing money.

“We will help with land clearing, fertiliser improvement, especially the inclusion of boron to revive old cocoa plantation and encourage new ones,’’ he said.

Related Topics:Nigeria Rice Production Self-Sufficiency

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Joke Silva Seeks Eradication Of Sexual Harassment In Film Industry

Published

8 hours ago

September 19, 2024

Reporter

Joke Silva seeks eradication of sexual harassment in film | fab.ng

Veteran actress Joke Silva calls for an end to sexual harassment and negative stereotypes in the Nigerian film industry.

Joke Silva is the President of the Forum of Women in Film and TV, Nigeria,

Silva addressed the issue during a conference held in Lagos on Wednesday. She passionately advocated for a safer and more inclusive working environment for women in the industry. She emphasized the need to eliminate all forms of sexual harassment and harmful stereotypes that perpetuate gender inequality.

“The importance of women in the film industry is paramount to shaping our nation. So, we need a safe and conducive environment to thrive.

“All forms of sexual harassment in the film industry must be eradicated as it kills the nation in so many ways that you cannot imagine.

“It is also important that we get rid of all forms of negative stereotypes in films where we paint some things in a certain way while in reality, it truly isn’t like that.

“We also need more women in the government in order to make policies and strengthen our stance in the country,” she said.

Anita Duckworth-Bradshaw is a Life Coach at Powerhouse Global Magazine. She urged women who have experienced abuse in the film industry to share their stories. She emphasized that speaking out can be a crucial step in the healing process.

“There are a lot of damages that have been done to women and we need to start talking to address the issues and also help with the healing process.

“We must deal with the hurt so as to give our full self to the industry and must ensure that we share our pain so as to ease up the load we have in our mind.

“This would also help in eradicating the bad eggs in the industry and ensure that such bad elements are replaced with good ones,” she said.

Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, Co-founder of The African Women’s Development Fund also spoke.

She stressed the significance of viewing challenges as opportunities for growth and achievement.

She emphasized the need for women to be provided with a platform. These platforms will allow them to excel in all areas of entertainment. Also, she highlighted the invaluable contributions women make to the industry.

Beatrice Eyong, Director, of UN Women’s Country also made a statement. She said,

“Women should become irreplaceable and indispensable in the industry so that when they are not there, their impact will be felt.

“We need to support women in making decisions in the film industry. There is also the need for the industry to adopt certain principles which will serve as guidelines for everyone.”

The event included panel discussions focused on building a sustainable and powerful network within the industry. Additionally, panellists explored the necessary structures, technologies, and infrastructure. This is to support the growth and development of the Nigerian film and television sector.

Check out more news updates here.

NEWS

DJ Cuppy Launches “Cuppy Fund” To Support African Students At New York University

Published

12 hours ago

September 19, 2024

Reporter

DJ Cuppy, the renowned DJ and philanthropist, has taken a bold step in her charitable efforts. She has officially launched the Cuppy Fund. This is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at supporting African students at New York University (NYU).

The announcement came through DJ Cuppy’s Instagram account. She shared her excitement about the fund’s launch, expressing pride in this new venture.

Her post read, “So proud to launch the Cuppy Fund for African students at New York University!”

The Cuppy Fund serves a crucial purpose. It aims to provide financial assistance to talented African students pursuing their education at NYU. This support will help make quality education more accessible to these students on an international level.

By creating this fund, DJ Cuppy is opening doors for African students. She’s allowing them to reach their full potential in a prestigious global institution. The impact of this initiative extends beyond individual students. It has the potential to contribute significantly to the development of the African continent.

The launch of the Cuppy Fund has garnered attention and praise from various quarters. Among those who congratulated DJ Cuppy was Tunde Onakoya, the celebrated chess champion and Guinness World Record holder.

He praised Cuppy for her efforts, saying, “Congratulations @cuppymusic on the launch of your scholarship fund for African students at New York University. Thank you for walking through the door and leaving it open for others. Super proud.”

DJ Cuppy’s initiative addresses a critical need in African education. It provides a bridge for talented students to access world-class education that might otherwise be out of reach. The fund could be life-changing for many aspiring African scholars.

The Cuppy Fund aligns with DJ Cuppy’s long-standing commitment to philanthropy.

It builds on her previous charitable works. Further, it cements her role as a champion for education and youth empowerment. Through this fund, she’s not just supporting individual students, but investing in Africa’s future leaders.

As news of the Fund spreads, it’s likely to inspire other philanthropists and organizations. DJ Cuppy’s initiative sets an example of how individuals can make a significant impact on education and community development.

Watch DJ Cuppy sharing more below:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Cuppy (@cuppymusic)

Get more updates here.

ENTERTAINMENT

Nigerian Comedienne, Kiekie Launches Game Show, “Kiekie Unscripted Experience”

Published

12 hours ago

September 19, 2024

Reporter

Kiekie Unscripted Experience: Kiekie launches game show | fab.ng

The talent game show “Kiekie Unscripted Experience” is gearing up for its grand debut on October 1, 2024. It will follow an intense two-week audition period.

From August 20 to September 6, 2024, the show witnessed an overwhelming response. It attracted over 10,000 entries from diverse talents across Nigeria. Aspiring singers, dancers, actors, rappers, and musicians flooded the auditions, showcasing the country’s rich creative potential.

This inclusive platform welcomes participants of all ages and genders. In return, it provides a unique opportunity for artists to display their skills, forge connections with industry leaders, and gain valuable exposure. The show aims to serve as a springboard for contestants, potentially launching successful careers in the entertainment industry.

Hosted by the charismatic Kiekie, the program promises to deliver a mix of dynamic performances and inspiring personal stories. Contestants will battle it out in various categories. This includes music, dance, and comedy, competing for life-changing prizes. The stakes are high, with ₦30 million in cash and two all-expense-paid trips to any destination of choice up for grabs.

Adding to the excitement, participants will engage in high-energy games designed to test both their physical prowess and mental acuity. These challenges will entertain viewers and also push contestants to their limits.

The inaugural season of “Kiekie Unscripted Experience” will unfold over 12 episodes, each featuring 13 thrilling segments.

Viewers can expect a rollercoaster of emotions, talent, and competition, culminating in a spectacular grand finale. The show will air new episodes every Thursday at 5:00 PM, exclusively on Kiekie TV’s YouTube channel.

As the October 1 premiere approaches, anticipation builds for this groundbreaking talent show. “Kiekie Unscripted Experience” is poised to revolutionize the Nigerian entertainment landscape.

Furthermore, the show will be offering a platform for undiscovered talents to shine and potentially transform their lives.

Also, with the performances, engaging challenges, and substantial rewards, the show promises to be a thriller for audiences. Indeed, it will also leave a lasting impact on the careers of its participants.