3,256 Women Empowered in Kogi's Rice and Cassava Sectors

The Federal Government, in collaboration with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) through the Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP), has empowered 3,256 women in Kogi State's rice and cassava value chains. During the commemoration of the 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmers, Stella Adejoh, the State Project Coordinator for FGN/IFAD – VCDP, emphasized the historic recognition of women's roles in agriculture.

Women in the five VCDP Local Government Areas—Ajaokuta, Ibaji, Kabba-Bunu, Lokoja, and Olamaboro—are transitioning from subsistence farming to agribusiness, adopting improved practices in rice and cassava production. The initiative includes access to inputs, productive assets, and market linkages, driven by the Gender Action Learning System (GALS).

Despite successes, challenges remain, including limited access to land and finance. Timothy Ojomah, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, urged women to extend their knowledge to other local government areas, highlighting the importance of women's empowerment for community and economic development.