Business
Diversification: Atiku Canvasses Modern Agric Techniques
Former Vice-President
Atiku Abubakar has urged Nigerians to embrace modern agricultural techniques to ensure economic diversification and sustainability in the country.
Abubakar made the call in Enugu at the 6th Annual Congress of the African Veterinary Association and the 53rd meeting of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association.
The former vice-president warned that Nigerians would not achieve the desired diversification of the nation’s economy by going back to ancient agricultural method.
“The opinion of going back to agriculture should not be to the ancient agricultural method but the modern one.
“We must know the meaning of diversification and its benefits before we embark on it. Its achievements are numerous.
“There is the need for diversification of the economy but with measures and focus.
“Government should, therefore, endeavour to make agriculture attractive to its citizens,” he said.
Abubakar also said that some African countries depended on single commodity which was mainly natural minerals whose prices were determined by the international market.
The APC chieftain, however, urged the associations to enhance professionalism among them and adhere strictly to modern professional techniques adding that they should not narrow their views toward raising animals alone.
Declaring the congress open, Gov Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State said that the state was ready to partner with the Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association to ensure diversification of economy in the country.
Ugwuanyi, who was represented by his deputy, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo , said that the country could not achieve its goal in diversification of its economy without the contributions of the association.
“As it is, you have much role to play in improving Nigeria and the world economy and its sustainability; therefore, I wish you will bring forth the solution to the dwindling economy through this congress.
“Government is always ready to support you to ensure that the citizens enjoy the benefits of agriculture and livestock products,” he said.
In his speech, the President, African Veterinary Association (AVA), Dr. Faouzi Kechrid, said the congress was poised toward developing and sustaining the African economy.
“I am happy that this congress is holding at the time that the whole world is undergoing economic recession and it is time we seek solutions to it,” he said.
Earlier in his welcome address, the President of Nigeria Veterinary and Medical Association (NVMA) Dr. Edgar Sunday, said that the congress had the capacity to turn around the bad economy of the country.
“Our economy is facing many challenges and we have the capacity to change the situation with determination and the right step and that is what we are here for.
“I, therefore, look forward to a successful deliberation toward improving Nigerian, African and the world economies at large,” he said.
The four-day congress has : Towards Economic Diversification and Sustainable Development in Africa-as its theme.
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.
