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The BATN Foundation, in partnership with the Akwa Ibom State Government, has launched an initiative to empower smallholder farmers and boost food security in the state. 

The project, which kicked off in 2024, has distributed 2,000 Noiler chickens to 100 smallholder farmers, targeting vulnerable groups such as women, youth, and people with disabilities ¹.

Each beneficiary received 20 five-week-old Noiler chickens, a 25 kg bag of poultry feed, and a 150 g multivitamin sachet to ensure the health and productivity of the birds. The state government also provided N5,000 to each beneficiary for transportation.

According to Rosemary Ubia, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, “This initiative aligns perfectly with the ARISE agenda of Governor Umo Eno, which aims to boost agricultural production in Akwa Ibom State.” Ubia represented the Commissioner, Effiong Offor, at the launch.

Oludare Odusanya, General Manager of the BATN Foundation, emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “This initiative represents a significant step in fostering economic empowerment among smallholder farmers across the country. It reflects our commitment to economic development and enhancing the lives of individuals in the communities we serve.”

The project was implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Poultry Farmers Association of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association. This partnership ensured that those most in need received the resources to establish sustainable poultry farming practices.

Teddy Essien, Director of Veterinary Services in Akwa Ibom State, commended the program, saying, “This project has the potential to transform rural farming practices and enhance the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.” Essien urged beneficiaries to prioritize the well-being of the birds.

Namokwo Orok, Director of Livestock and Husbandry, emphasized the program’s alignment with the state government’s agricultural revolution agenda, describing the partnership as “timely and critical for advancing agricultural practices in our communities.”

The project focuses on providing sustainable protein sources, improving nutrition, and fostering gender equality by equipping women with practical poultry farming skills. 

As Odusanya noted, “This initiative empowers women and youth, creating equal opportunities in agriculture while improving livelihoods and income-generating prospects for rural communities.

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