Senator Neda Imasuen yesterday in Benin distributed 10,000 cashew seedlings to members of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) in Edo South.
The Senator, representing Edo South, urged all landowners to engage in farming, describing agriculture as a viable path toward economic empowerment and sustainability for the average citizen.
Represented by his legislative aide, Derrick Uhunmagho, Imasuen emphasised that farming remained a practical and profitable endeavour for everyday Nigerian seeking income and long-term financial stability.
He said those with land should cultivate productive crops instead of ornamental plants, highlighting cashew as a high-yield, income-generating option for small-scale farmers.
In his remarks, the Edo AFAN chairman, Alhaji Bako Dogwo, praised Senator Imasuen’s support, describing him as a man, who had brought joy to farmers in the region.
He announced that 1,200 farmers would benefit in the first phase, with each farmer receiving 300 seedlings, while others would get theirs after proper profiling.
“Cashew is a long-term investment. In three years, these seedlings will begin yielding substantial economic benefits for all participating farmers in this programme,” he said.
He recalled that the Senator had distributed 1,200 bags of fertilizer to the farmers and urged him to continue supporting local farmers across Edo South.
“We encourage everyone to embrace farming. This is the future for the common man, a way to secure livelihoods and ensure food security, he said.
The Vice Chairman of AFAN, Edo South, Comrade Osama Osaro, thanked Senator Imasuen for the seedlings, describing them as a significant boost to farming in the region.
“This support complements our efforts. We appreciate the Senator’s contribution and hope he continues providing more help to local farmers like us,” he added. (NAN)