FAO, WFP to provide inputs for IDP farmers

As part of measures to revive victims of insurgency, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in collaboration with World Food Programme (WFP) has launched livelihoods support programme to deliver seeds and fertiliser to IDP farmers in the Northeast part of Nigeria.

FAO and WFP Nigeria representatives, Suffyan Koroma and Myrta Kaulard disclosed in a statement in Maduguri, Borno state capital.

According to Koroma, the launching and distribution of bags of seeds and fertilsers to displaced farmers was to augment food production and ensure food stability and independence.

“Using a ‘twin track’ approach, FAO is providing enough seeds and fertilizers to produce up to eight months’ worth of food during this year’s rainy season.” Koroma said

He stressed that  FAO provided seeds and fertilizers to 16,000 households in Rann, who have safe access to land and cultivate for harvests.

“They have also, through a community-based assessment, proved capable of growing their food. This includes families who have sought refuge in Rann as well as the host population.”   He added.

The benefiting farmers expressed excitement at the said project, an initiative they enthused would help in resuscitating them back to their former life.