From Godwin Agia, in Jalingo
The Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, Monday, flagged off planting of ginger and turmeric plants to boost economic growth of the State.
The governor performed the exercise at the college of Agriculture Science and Technology, Jalingo.
Kefas noted that his administration has resolved to promote cash crops and as well invest in research.
Represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Professor Nicholas Namessan Oliver, Kefas said that Taraba State is blessed with large expanse of land suitable for the planting of all crops.
He assured farmers of funding to promote tumeric and ginger farming in view of the fact that both can serve as medicine, seasoning, sales and can grow resisting grasses and harsh weather.
The Governor urged the Provost, College of Agriculture Science and Technology to ensure that thorough research be carried out on all cash crops in line with government policies on food security and self sufficiency.
Commenting, Provost College of Agriculture Science and Technology Yakubu Ali Garjila appreciated Governor Agbu Kefas for according priority to Agriculture and promised not to fail by disseminating the right information to farmers on tumeric and ginger farming including other cash crops.
In his goodwill message, Kru Jibbu Abubakar Mahmud thanked Governor Agbu Kefas for appointing Professor Nicholas Namessan Oliver, an engineer and Agriculturalist as Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security who is meticulously carrying out all government programmes and policies in the agricultural sector.
The traditional ruler called on farmers to support Governor Agbu Kefas to deliver on his mandate given to him by the people.
In his vote of thanks, Secretary Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Philemon Bulus appreciated Governor Agbu Kefas and the Commissioner of the Ministry for adopting friendly template to assist farmers and prayed God to strengthen them.
High point of the flag off was demonstration by students of the College of Agriculture Science and Technology on the planting of tumeric and ginger as well as inauguration of the desk office at the college by the Commissioner of Agriculture and Food Security Professor Nicholas Namessan Oliver.
