By Sharon Akuboh,
Chief Kome Okpobor, a stakeholder in Isoko nation of Delta State has commended Positive Impact for Women and Youth Development Initiative (PIWYODI) for their initiative in promoting agricultural activities in the state.
Okpobor stated this when he received a delegation from the PIWYODI in Warri on Monday.
Positive Impact for Women and Youth Development Initiative is an NGO committed to empowering women and youth through agro-allied activities, education, climate change, and health awareness with current emphasis on rice cultivation across all Local Government Areas of Delta State.
Okpobor who is also Director Admin and Finance in the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) described the move as timely and commendable, especially after their soil tests confirmed Delta’s suitability for large-scale rice farming.
He said “as a passionate advocate for youth and women empowerment, I deeply appreciate your vision and assure you of my support.
“I want to also encourage you engage with leaders such as Hon. Prince Godwin Ogorugba, Dr. Joseph Onojaime, and Hon.Jonathan Ukodhiko, from my Local Government Area and beyond who can further strengthen your mission,” he added.
Okpobor finally stressed the need to pursue this course vigorously as the collaboration holds great promise for food security, job creation, and sustainable development in our state.
Earlier, the National Coordinator of PIWYODI, Mrs Martha Onadeko stated the organization was established three years ago with focus to empower women and youth through practical and sustainable channels, pointing out that rice farming, when fully discovered will provide unlimited opportunities in the state and Nigeria as a whole.
Onadeko explained that they were in the office to seek partnership and collaboration towards improved outcome.
On her part the state coordinator of PIWYODI, Honourable Mary Samuel informed chief Okpobor that they have already planted over 20 hectares of rice in the state which is due for harvest.
Samuel said that their organization is constrained in the areas of processing machines such harvester thresher, vehicles, among others.
She thanked the chief for aligning with their vision.