Kagarko (Kaduna State) – Australian Government has supported projects worth N110 million in Nigeria through assistance to organisations in the last one year.
Mr Jon Richardson, Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, made this disclosure on Monday at the formal launch of Beekeeping Extension Society in Dogon-Daji, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme was funded by the Australian High Commission through a Zaria-based NGO, Beekeeping Extension Society, with the theme: “Introducing Youth to Modern Honey Production Practices.”
Represented by Mrs Latonia Mpamugo, the Administrative/Consular Officer, Richardson said the support was meant to build a better future for youths in the country.
“We have been able to sponsor projects across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones and we are pleased that we have had the opportunity to support important projects like this one in Kaduna State.
“We have supported projects across range of fields such as agriculture, education, health, good governance, water and sanitation, our projects are aimed at helping the most vulnerable in the society, “ he said.
In his speech, Gov. Nasiru El-Rufa’i of Kaduna State lauded the efforts of the Australian Government as well as the Beekeeping Extension Society for introducing the beekeeper with modern technique.
El-Rufa’i, who was represented by the Deputy Director, Fisheries in state Ministry of Agriculture, Mr Christopher Bitrus, assured that agriculture would be given pride of place in his administration.
“Before the end of this year, 4, 500 beneficiaries will be trained on modern beekeeping and they will be equipped with modern beekeeping tools.
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“We have discovered that beekeeping has the potential to mop-up unemployment and generate income, especially among the youth, “he said.
The Chairman, All Farmers Association in Kaduna State, Alhaji Nuhu Aminu, urged the beneficiaries to utilise the training and use the materials provided to improve their income.
Earlier, the Emir of Kagarko, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, represented by the District Head of Kagarko, Alhaji Garba Lawal, who thanked the Australian Government, described the event as the first of its kind in the area.
In a remark, the project manager, Beekeeping Extension Society, Alhaji Idris Mohammed-Barau, advised the beneficiaries to embrace hard work and commitment in their endeavours.
He also urged them to ensure the production of quality honey for people’s consumption. (NAN)