Farmer Tasks RSG On Demonstration Farms

In line with President Goodluck Jonathan’s transformation agenda, especially in the agricultural sector, a renowned cocoa farmer, Mr Verygood Wekulom has called on the Rivers State Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources to set up 23 demonstration farms across the state.

Mr Wekulom, who hails from Dighinga community in the Otapha district of Abua/Odual Local Government Area of the state made the call during a routine visit to his farm with our correspondent. He called on the authorities to deploy agriculture extension officers to manage such farms.

He explained that such officers should be indigenes of the area to which they are posted, to enable them communicate in the language of the farmers.

According to him, “even though some people and indeed farmers can read and write, majority of our rural farmers who produce the bulk of the food were illi trade” adding that the system if well co-ordinated would yield the deserved result.

While taking our correspondent round his over three hectares large farm, Mr Wekulom enjoined the government to intensify the distribution of farming implements and inputs to farmers in order to boost food production in the various LGAs.

He further stated that the 23 demonstration farms should be located at the headquarters of he local government councils to enable the council authorities contribute their quota.

Mr Wekulom, who has been a consistent cocoa farmer all his life advised rural people to embrace farming as he described it as the only occupation where people can derive joy and happiness.