Business
Expert Cautions Farmers On Manure Sourcing
People buying bananas at Zuba fruit market in Abuja last Saturday.
An Agricultural engi
neer, Mr. Umor Mensah says refuse dumps are good sources of organic manure.
Mensah who spoke to The Tide recently in a telephone interview said farmers should take advantage of refuse dumps as they were rich in animal and other wastes that improve soil fertility.
He said the practice would be most beneficial especially in areas that experience late arrival of the rains.
Explaining further, he said the practice would check the late acquisition of fertilisers by farmers even as the application of fertilizer should be timely.
Mensah explained that the more waste a farmer puts on his farms, the less fertiliser he would need after planting.
According to him, movement of waste could be capital intensive especially for those moving such products from the urban centres to their farms in the villages.
He advised such farmers to seek the help of their local government authorities, especially those who don’t have vehicles for such operations.
He further advised farmers to approach livestock farmers for waste evacuation as most of them would be happy for such gestures even as he said others might charge little amounts of money.
Nkpemenyie Mcdominic
Reports say that the training is designed to equip youths with practical technical skills for employment in the oil and gas and construction sectors, with emphasis on employability, safety, competence and self reliance.
In attendance at the flag-off ceremony this week, at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Conference Hall, Effurun, were stakeholders, dignitaries, and political representatives, among others.
Dafinone, represented by his Chief of Staff, Adelabu Bodjor, said the initiative reflects a deliberate political investment in human capital development across Delta Central.
He explained that the training focuses on rigging and scaffolding, noting that “both are essential technical competencies required in industrial operations, construction projects, and oil and gas installations”.
Bodjor added, “The programme is intended to reduce dependency among youths by providing job-ready skills capable of supporting long-term economic opportunities and self-sufficiency. The initiative aligns with Senator Dafinone’s broader development agenda, which prioritises practical skill acquisition as a pathway to sustainable empowerment.”
Also addressing the participants, the NCDMB, Felix Omatsola Ogbe, represented by Mr. Teddy Bai, commended Dafinone for sponsoring the programme, describing it as “a timely response to critical manpower gaps in the industry”.
Bai explained that rigging and scaffolding remain safety-sensitive skills required across fabrication yards, offshore platforms, and construction sites, stressing that the programme bridges the gap between certification and practical competence.
He also charged the training consultant, OROH Contractors Limited, to maintain strict standards of professionalism, safety, and discipline, while urging participants to remain committed, focused, and disciplined throughout the exercise.
The Senate Liaison Officer for Sapele Local Government Area, Chief Patrick Akamuvba, , described the programme as a major step in strengthening human capital development in Delta Central.
Akamuvba said scaffolding and rigging skills are in high demand across residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects, noting that the training offers real employment opportunities for beneficiaries
He urged participants to prioritise knowledge and certification over short-term material expectations, stressing that discipline and seriousness would determine their long-term success.
He also cautioned youths against social vices and distractions, advising them to remain focused to maximise the opportunities provided by the programme.
