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The Director General of Imo State Investment Promotion Agency (ISIPA), Prof. Jude Nzeako, has thrown his weight behind the Imo State Community Europe's initiative on Smart and Sustainable Agriculture.
Speaking during a program organised by IMO Community Europe at Arizona Hotel Owerri, on Climate Smart Agriculture, he viewed it as a welcome development, saying; it highlights the importance of adopting modern farming practices to boost productivity and mitigate the effects of climate change.
The program, aptly titled "Smart and Sustainable Agric," aims to equip local farmers with the necessary skills and knowledge to improve their farming practice.
According to him, the program is crucial, as many farmers in Imo State and Nigeria as a whole still rely on ancient methods that are not only inefficient but also contribute to environmental degradation.
Prof. Nzeako's emphasis on smart agriculture stating that the program is timely, with proven approaches that can lead to increase crop yields, reduction in water usage, promotion of sustainable farming practices.
He expressed conviction that by adopting smart agriculture techniques, farmers can withstand the shocks of climate change, manage erosion, and access markets through organizations like ANCOPS.
The ISIPA Director General call on farmers to embrace smart agriculture, he also reminded them that life is about improvement.
His words, " It is essential for farmers to recognize the importance of adopting modern farming practices to improve their livelihoods and contribute to the state's agricultural development".
Prof.Nzeako explained that Smart agriculture is not just a buzzword; but a game-changer for farmers and it's huge opportunity it presents to farmers to leverage on cutting-edge technologies can enable them to optimize their inputs, detect diseases early, and predict yields.This approach he said, can increase yields by up to 30% and reduce water usage by up to 50%."
Stating that the benefits of smart agriculture are numerous, and it is essential for Imo State and Nigeria as a whole to adopt this approach, Prof Nzeako said in doing so, farmers can improve food security, reduce poverty, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
He viewed the Imo State Community Europe's initiative as a step in the right direction, and hoped it will inspire other communities to follow suit.
The ISIPA's support for this initiative is a testament to its commitment to promoting, economic growth of the state and sustainable agricultural practices in the state.
Noting that smart agriculture is not just about increasing yields; but also about improving the lives of farmers and promoting sustainable development he said is essential for all stakeholders to support this initiative and work towards a more sustainable agricultural future for Imo State and Nigeria.
According to him, he said the adoption of smart agriculture practices requires a mindset change, and it is essential for farmers to be willing to learn and adapt to new technologies.
The ISISPA DG expressed believe that the future of farming is smart, and it is essential for farmers to embrace this approach to ensure food security and sustainable development, saying; "smart agriculture is a call to action, and it is essential for all stakeholders to work together to promote sustainable agricultural practices in Imo State and Nigeria. Let us join hands to build a more sustainable future for our farmers and our community".