By Comr. Florence Ifeanyi Chidobi
The 16th of October annually is commemorated as the World Food Day and the founding of Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO). It is a day set aside to remember the organization’s search for the solutions to the problems of hunger and poverty in the world, with the goals that young men and women should feed the world according to United Nations. Hence, 16th October, 2024, Cenotaph, Asaba, Delta State, was agog with various agricultural produce, while Oshimili North Local Government Area, ably led by the Head of Personnel Management of the council, Lady Stella Jones -Ofunne, who represented the Chairman, Hon. Innocent Ifeanyichukwu Esewezie, in company of the Head of Agricultural Department, Mrs. Mary-Joe Ogbolu among other staff, amazingly showcased the rich agricultural produce from their council, to the admiration of all and sundry and the state government in particular.
Moreover, in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Hon. Ada Val Arenyeka Esq. assured the residents of the state the farmers’ efforts toward achieving sustainable agricultural strongholds, for the eradication of hunger in the state.
Delivering his speech, however, the Acting Governor, His Excellency, Monday Onyeme, reiterated that this year’s theme: “Right to Food” is a necessity, a right not a privilege, as he stressed that everyone has right to enjoy good food at affordable price in the state.
Furthermore, the Deputy Governor x-rayed the numerous hindrances to productions of agricultural produce and promised food security in the state. Also, According to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori “M.O.R.E AGENDA”, he highlights that “In Agricultural Sector, we shall develop the agricultural value chain, which is a major driver of the sustainable economic growths. This administration will spare no effort to ensure that the development of agro- industrial parks is accelerated, given their potentials to generate employment opportunities, create wealth, reduce unemployment and improve food security.”
Meanwhile, declaring the activities of the 2024 World Food Day Celebration opened, the Governor enjoined every resident of the state to make farming part of their existence, to ameliorate hunger, as everyone has right to a better life and a better future.
Finally, the Governor during the tour of exhibition of the various councils of the state and their agricultural produce, expressed satisfaction at Oshimili North standard, as he applauded the sizes and weights of the numerous agricultural produce from the local government.
Highpoints of the celebration were goodwill messages from non governmental organizations, awards of prizes and sales of exhibits.
