In an effort towards strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural sector, the NNPC Foundation has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to achieving national food security through strategic empowerment and training of vulnerable farmers across the country.
Speaking during the launch of a farmer training session in Akwa Ibom State on Wednesday, Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, Managing Director of NNPC Foundation, revealed that the organization is set to train 6,000 farmers nationwide on modern agricultural techniques and market access strategies to significantly boost food production. Arukwe was represented at the event by Dr. Bala David, Executive Director of Programme Development and Coordinator at the Foundation.
According to her, the initiative is a core component of NNPC Foundation’s mission to deliver impactful programmes that support Nigeria’s national development agenda, particularly in agriculture and rural empowerment.
“In Akwa Ibom alone, over 500 farmers drawn from all 31 local government areas have been equipped with innovative farming methods and market insights through the NNPC Ltd Agricultural Training Initiative for Vulnerable Farmers,” she stated. “This programme reflects our steadfast dedication to food security, economic inclusion, and community transformation. It aligns seamlessly with the Federal Government’s agricultural transformation agenda.”
Arukwe emphasized that the training aims to transition smallholder farmers from subsistence farming to commercially viable enterprises, equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and market access necessary to thrive in today’s economy.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Offiong Offor, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development in Akwa Ibom State, expressed profound appreciation to NNPC Foundation for championing such a transformative programme. Represented by Dr. Atim Okoko, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, she lauded the initiative as timely and strategic.
“A nation that empowers its farmers is a nation that secures its future. This initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes ending hunger and achieving food self-sufficiency across the nation,” Offor said.

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She noted that the training initiative perfectly complements the state government’s efforts to bolster agricultural productivity and improve rural livelihoods.
In a show of gratitude, Mr. Bassey Inwang, State Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), expressed the farmers’ readiness to implement the knowledge gained for enhanced productivity.
“We are truly grateful for this opportunity. We assure you that the training will be put to effective use on our farms to ensure better yields and greater food output,” Inwang affirmed.
The NNPC Foundation’s training initiative continues to underscore the importance of partnerships in driving sustainable development and agricultural transformation in Nigeria.