By Stella Okpalaeze
Farmers in Anambra State have been encouraged to heed the advice of agricultural extension service agents in their communities to improve productivity and ensure food security.
The Programme Manager of the Anambra State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP), Mr. Godwin Akujieze, gave the advice while interacting with newsmen at his office at Kwata, Awka on June 23.
Mr. Akujieze explained that the primary responsibility of the ADP is to provide farmers with technical support and guidance, including recommendations on suitable varieties of cassava and maize to cultivate, as well as best farming practices for the rainy season.
According to him, recommended cassava varieties include TME 419, TME 0505 and TME 0581, which are yellow-fleshed cassava varieties fortified with Vitamin A.
He further noted that Hybrid 2 and Hybrid 6 maize varieties are among the best options for farmers seeking improved yields.
The ADP Programme Manager stated that extension service agents are stationed across all local government areas of the state, particularly in riverine communities, to provide farmers with timely technical assistance.
He disclosed that each extension agent is expected to work with at least 80 contact farmers and urged farmers to take advantage of their expertise by consulting them regularly.
Mr. Akujieze also highlighted a growing shift from the use of inorganic fertilizers to organic alternatives such as poultry manure and compost manure, which he described as more environmentally friendly and sustainable.
He expressed concern over the excessive use of chemical fertilizers, noting that many health challenges have been linked to their improper application in food production.
The ADP Programme Manager assured farmers that the recommended cassava and maize varieties would be made available during the current farming season.
Stella Okpalaeze is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
