The Propcom+ initiative, which is supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), is poised to revolutionise Nigeria’s landscape. According to the initiative, Nigeria is struggling with an alarming deforestation rate of 3.7%, which is primarily driven by unsustainable agricultural practices. This initiative came as a response to the global campaign on sustainable farming. As of the beginning of this year, 2024, the plan is scheduled to commence with the objective of rescuing four million people from poverty, protecting forests, and empowering female entrepreneurs.
At a well-attended workshop in Abuja, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, who was represented by his trusted delegate, Commissioner for Environment Joshua Omokhodion, along with Kevin Uwaibi, the capable Managing Director of the Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO) shared the exciting news with journalists. Uwaibi, eager to highlight the main objectives of this groundbreaking project, proudly announced that Edo state’s notable achievements in preserving oil palm and forests in an eco-friendly manner have gained widespread acclaim.
Forests, agriculture, and entrepreneurship sectors will be enhanced.
According to him, three vital areas in which Propcom will provide assistance have been carefully selected in the state. These sectors include forests, agriculture, and entrepreneurship. The strategic blueprint of Edo state aims to utilise Propcom’s resources to strengthen its invaluable forests, which are acknowledged as crucial elements for both environmental stability and economic development. Furthermore, the initiative plans to empower small-scale farmers through the implementation of climate-smart practices and improved market opportunities. By doing so, it intends to enhance productivity and build resilience within the agricultural industry.
A crucial emphasis resides on empowering female agribusiness entrepreneurs, promoting equal growth and unleashing their unexplored capabilities. The proactive approach by the state highlights the pressing importance embodied by the mission of PropCom. Similarly, Nigeria is confronting a distressing deforestation rate of 3.7%, largely driven by unsustainable farming techniques. It was observed that the company’s initiative strives to reverse this alarming pattern by redirecting the discourse towards sustainable land management and climate-resistant agricultural approaches.
More funding was given to support agricultural endeavours.
Additionally, the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has granted participating Nigerian states the opportunity to access $210 million in financing. This financial support aims to support the advancement of essential infrastructure and associated endeavours within the framework of the Special Agro-industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) program. Furthermore, in addition to Edo’s innovative initiatives, Propcom expands its influence to encompass a set of six states, aiming to benefit 4 million individuals, with a particular emphasis on ensuring equality for women.
With a significant financial backing of £55 million from the UK government, there is an ambitious initiative aimed at the preservation and revitalisation of forests, boosting small-scale farmers’ productivity and ensuring food security, building resilient agricultural systems that can withstand climate challenges and empowering female entrepreneurs to drive economic growth. This groundbreaking Propcom project emerges as a crucial turning point for Nigeria to directly address its multitude of environmental and economic hurdles. Edo’s unwavering guidance acts as a guiding light, urging people to come together and take collective steps forward.
All parties must collaborate to support the initiative.
In preparation for the implementation of Propcom, it is imperative for all parties involved to come together and synchronise their endeavours to guarantee the remarkable success of the program. By embarking on this joint venture, they are paving the way towards a more environmentally friendly and prosperous future for Nigeria. According to him, the Propcom initiative emphasises a transformative path that necessitates cooperation and unity to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for both Nigeria and its people.
Related Link
ESIPO: Website
