The Ebonyi State Government has launched a free agro-entrepreneurship training programme for civil servants as part of efforts to equip them with practical agricultural skills and create alternative sources of income.
The initiative, tagged “A Second Address,” was unveiled by the Office of the Head of Service in collaboration with UF Farms Institutes. It focuses on training participants in snail farming, fish farming and pig farming, aligning with the state’s broader agenda to strengthen food security, promote economic diversification and encourage wealth creation.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on behalf of the Head of Service, Dr. Ritamary Okoro, the Permanent Secretary, Establishment, Dr. Isioma C. Arunne-Inyang, described the programme as a timely response to prevailing economic realities.
She said the initiative was designed to provide civil servants with sustainable alternative sources of income beyond their monthly salaries, thereby improving their financial resilience.
“Government can no longer afford to put all its eggs in one basket. This programme is about putting food on the table and money in the pocket. It is an investment in self-reliance, dignity and the long-term financial resilience of our workforce,” she said.
Dr. Arunne-Inyang urged participants to approach the training with commitment and dedication, stressing that the knowledge acquired should be used not only to enhance household food production but also to establish profitable agribusiness ventures.
The Convener and Lead Facilitator of UF Farms Institutes, Barr. Favour Ugochukwu Ibe Obijiofor, commended Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for supporting the initiative. She disclosed that participants would have access to loan facilities and grant opportunities to enable them establish and expand viable agribusinesses after completing the training.
“At UF Farms, we are not merely teaching snail, fish and pig farming. We are planting the seeds of entrepreneurship that will grow into thriving businesses. The era of relying solely on salaries is over. It is time for civil servants to become job creators,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, Hon. Ejikeme C. Agbo thanked the Ebonyi State Government and the organisers for the opportunity, assuring them that beneficiaries would make the most of the training and apply the knowledge acquired to achieve the programme’s objectives.
The initiative reflects the Nwifuru administration’s commitment to human capital development, economic diversification and sustainable livelihoods. By equipping civil servants with practical agribusiness skills, the government aims to empower public servants as entrepreneurs capable of contributing to food security, job creation and the overall economic growth of Ebonyi State.
