By Sunday Apah
Hon. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, the representative for Isoko North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has initiated an agripreneur empowerment program aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and supporting local businesses in his constituency.
The program was officially launched at the NULGE Hall, located in the Isoko North LGA Secretariat in Ozoro. It is focused on providing assistance to 100 local constituents involved in fish farming and pig farming. At the launch, Ukodhiko, who holds the position of Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology, was represented by Hon. Elder Godwin Ogorugba, the Chairman of the Isoko North Local Government Council.
The initiative is designed to provide agripreneurs with essential resources, skills, and financial backing to help them grow their businesses and improve their living standards.
According to Ukodhiko, approximately 50 fish farmers will receive 1,500 juvenile fish, six bags of fish feed, and ₦150,000 in cash support. Meanwhile, 40 pig farmers will each benefit from a ₦500,000 grant to enhance their farming operations and increase productivity.
He emphasized that the program is not limited to the distribution of materials; rather, it serves as a foundation for sustained empowerment that aims to cultivate a new generation of Isoko agripreneurs equipped to drive innovation, create jobs, and foster economic growth within the constituency.
“This is more than just another initiative,” Ukodhiko stated. “It embodies my belief in the vast potential of our people and my conviction that agriculture is essential for sustainable development, food security, and prosperity. We are not just teaching our people how to earn a living today; we are equipping them to create wealth for the future.”
The lawmaker also expressed gratitude to the program’s partners—the Federal Cooperative College, Orji River, and Kinging Logistics and Automobiles Ltd. He noted that their collaboration adds value to the program and creates additional opportunities for participants.
Participants will receive training in fish farming, piggery management, and agribusiness practices to ensure both profitability and sustainability. The three-day program will continue through the end of this week.
Attendees at the event included prominent figures such as Barr. Vote Umukoro, Secretary of the Isoko North Local Government Council; Chief Matthew Amudede, Vice Chairman of Isoko North APC; Prince Uloho Ofiobor; Prince Dennis Presley Obrogo JP; Chief Oke Abughe; Pastor Sunday Elueni; Amb. Sunday Omaduvie; Engr. Joseph Uyeri; Hon. Jerry Obi; Mrs. Joyce Egbo; Hon. Joan Omuyeh; and Amb. Oreva Efenudu.
