Okomu Oil and PIND trained farmers in climate-smart agriculture

The Okomu Oil Palm Company Plc, in partnership with the Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND), has implemented a project to support 500 farmers from 17 communities in Edo State. The events, collectively titled "From Learning to Adoption: Promoting Improved and Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices," took place on September 28 and 29 as two field days in Udo (Ovia South-West Local Government Area) and Odigie (Ovia North-East Local Government Area). This program is part of PIND and Okomu's joint corporate social responsibility project and is based on demonstration farms designed to increase productivity and farm profitability while reducing production risks.

During the practical sessions, PIND technical specialists demonstrated techniques for working with improved cassava stems, planting rules, spacing and farm establishment practices, as well as practices for oil palm, cacao, and rubber. Selected participants were provided with fertilizer, herbicides, and cassava planting material to implement the technologies on their own plots. As noted by Okomu Oil Smallholder Scheme Manager Sam Aisien (speaking on behalf of Managing Director Dr. Graham Hefer), the initiative aims to practically strengthen livelihoods in neighboring communities through access to technology, resources, and market support.

PIND Economic Development Manager Misan Edema-Silio (representing Executive Director Sam Ogbemudia Daibo) emphasized that the field day format combines on-site demonstrations, local consultations, and market linkages to transition from theory to the real application of skills. The farmers were connected with local technical service providers for ongoing mentoring and were also able to directly interact with accredited input dealers, major buyers, and financial institutions.

These activities are being implemented within the framework of a three-year partnership between Okomu Oil and PIND valued at 1.2 billion Naira, aimed at the sustainable development of neighboring communities. Earlier in August, the partners commissioned a 61 kWh solar mini-grid in the Gbelebu community to supply electricity to the first 100 households and businesses.