MOUAU Empowers 12 Farmers With ₦300000 Each to Boost Modern Agriculture

The Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike MOUAU has empowered 12 farmers with ₦300000 each as part of efforts to promote modern agriculture value addition and sustainable livelihoods in its host communities.

Speaking at the 2026 Farmers Summit and Empowerment Programme organized by the MOUAU Extension Centre MEC Vice Chancellor Professor Ursula Ngozi Akanwa reaffirmed the university's commitment to ensuring that surrounding communities benefit directly from its agricultural research innovations and extension services.

The event was held under the theme Placing Value Addition to Agricultural Produce.

Professor Akanwa said the university has a responsibility to ensure that its technologies products and research have a positive impact on farmers and local communities.

She stressed that agriculture has evolved beyond traditional farming methods and urged farmers to embrace modern technologies smart agriculture and value addition to improve productivity and profitability.

The Vice Chancellor also announced plans to retrain staff of the MOUAU Extension Centre and programme beneficiaries to equip them with up to date knowledge and skills that will enhance agricultural production.

According to her beneficiaries of the empowerment programme will be closely monitored to evaluate their progress identify challenges and receive continuous support to ensure lasting impact.

She further encouraged young people to view agriculture as a profitable business venture rather than merely a means of subsistence.

Earlier Director of the MOUAU Extension Centre Professor Uchechi Apu said the centre is committed to empowering farmers through training improved technologies and practical interventions aimed at increasing productivity improving livelihoods and reducing poverty in rural communities.

He revealed that following the success of last year's programme in which six farmers received ₦250000 each the university expanded this year's initiative to support 12 beneficiaries who participated in the 2026 Farmers Summit and other capacity building programmes.

Professor Apu added that improved planting materials and farm inputs had already been distributed to farmers at the beginning of the current farming season.

He commended the Vice Chancellor for supporting the initiative and reaffirmed the centre's commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture through effective extension services.

The highlight of the programme was the presentation of ₦300000 cheques to each of the 12 beneficiaries drawn from the Umuahia Aba and Ohafia Agricultural Zones.

The beneficiaries are expected to strengthen enterprises in

• Cassava production

• Poultry farming

• Vegetable farming

• Fish farming

• Agribusiness

• Oil processing

• Food processing

The university said the initiative reflects its commitment to promoting value addition modern agricultural practices and sustainable livelihoods for farmers in its adopted communities.