Military
UK Boosts Efficiency Rice Production in Nigeria
UK Boosts Efficiency Rice Production in Nigeria
By: Michael Mike
The United Kingdom (UK) has assisted in the introduction to Nigeria Systems of Rice Intensification – SRI, a climate smart agricultural practice that would lead to efficiency rice production
The introduced system can lead to reduction of input costs by 50%, with less use of water, doubling yields for farmers and reducing GHG emissions.
A statement on Wednesday by the Senior Press & Public Affairs Officer and Comms Lead, Prosperity and Economic Development, Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, Ndidiamaka Eze read that: “Since 2021, the UK Government’s LINKS programme implemented by Tetra Tech International Development has been piloting a couple of climate smart farming initiatives; helping farmers to increase yields and become more resilient in the face of climate change while reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.”
Eze said at a Climate Smart Agriculture results and lesson sharing event which held in Abuja on Wednesday, LINKS demonstrated that the project is starting to deliver impressive results, particularly the Systems of Rice Intensification – SRI, a climate smart agricultural practice which is a different way of producing rice that reduces input costs by 50%, with less use of water, doubling yields for farmers and reducing GHG emissions.
She explained that SRI involves early transplanting of seedlings and wide spacing to allow the plants to flourish, alternative wetting and drying rather than flooding and the use of organic rather than chemical fertilisers.
She disclosed that a further benefit for wider society is the overall climate impact delivered by SRI. Rice production traditionally produces methane (globally contributing approximately 2.5% of all human induced GHG emissions, roughly the same as international air travel) and this is set to grow in Nigeria with increasing consumption and production of paddy rice.
Speaking at Wednesday’s event, Team Leader, LINKS programme, Andrew Thorburn said: “Farmers were sceptical at first but after four seasons we now have over 26,000 farmers in Kano, Kaduna and Jigawa actively using SRI. The use of organic rather than chemical fertilisers equally meant that soil quality further improves every season which continued to deliver improved results as well as increased resilience to changing weather, especially flooding.”
British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Ben Llewellyn-Jones, represented by the FCDO Climate and Nature Lead in Abuja, Martine Sobey said: “The UK Government has a strong focus on supporting Nigeria to deliver its international climate commitments,” adding that: “We are particularly pleased to note that the Systems of Rice Intensification – SRI reduces the GHG emissions produced by rice growers by as much as 40% and look forward to seeing SRI expand throughout Nigeria”.
At the event participants heard from farmers based in Kano and Jigawa who were trained to use the SRI method explain how the change had benefited their lives and that of their communities. They also heard from Silvex International, a LINKS partner and aggregator who is planning to expand SRI to over 1,000 hectares in the coming years that will ensure benefits throughout the value chain. With this positive start, SRI is set to help Nigeria on the road to rice self-sufficiency as well as improving the environment for all.
The LINKS programme – Powering Economic Growth in Northern Nigeria – is a £12m UK government funded programme designed to support the development of a vibrant, inclusive, and diversified economy in three Northern Nigeria States of Kano, Kaduna and Jigawa.
LINKS primary objective is to develop high potential pro-poor value chains supporting them to be productive, competitive, and attractive for investment at every level.
The programme has had two main areas of activity, which are Support for the growth of Climate Smart Agriculture to improve yields, build resilience among farming communities against climate change, as well as reducing the emission of GHG. In addition to SRI, LINKS is also working with 30,000 farmers in Jigawa state to pilot a regenerative farming project that will generate additional revenue from the sale of carbon credits; and the LINKS also works to encourage investment into its focal states, including working with businesses to help them develop plans to access finance for growth and development. Clients range from small holder farmers to high tech start-ups and large corporates.
UK Boosts Efficiency Rice Production in Nigeria
CAS Advocates Indigenous Solutions During Strategic Visit to Caverton Helicopters
By: Olusola Akinboyewa
As part of his operational tour of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) establishments in Lagos, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, on 13 December 2024, visited Caverton Helicopters Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility to evaluate progress on the ongoing 2,500-hour and 5-year major inspections of NAF Bell-412 helicopters (NAF 599 and NAF 600). The visit highlighted the critical role of indigenous expertise in advancing NAF’s operational capabilities and fostering sustainable aviation solutions.
Air Marshal Abubakar commended Caverton’s technical expertise and cutting-edge facilities, expressing satisfaction with the quality of work being done. He noted that NAF 600 was near operational readiness, while NAF 599 was 70% complete.
The CAS emphasized the importance of leveraging local partnerships to reduce reliance on foreign services, enhance NAF’s fleet maintenance, and build national capacity for aircrew training and technical development. He described the collaboration with Caverton as a model for sustainable solutions that align with the NAF’s commitment to operational excellence.
The Chief Executive Officer of Caverton Helicopters, Mr. Olabode Makanjuola, assured the CAS of the company’s readiness to continue delivering top-notch services to support NAF operations. He highlighted the facility’s achievements in overhauling critical helicopter components and noted the value of the NAF partnership in strengthening Nigeria’s aviation industry. The visit underscored the strategic importance of indigenous collaborations in bolstering national security and advancing Nigeria’s aviation sector.
CAS Advocates Indigenous Solutions During Strategic Visit to Caverton Helicopters
COMMANDER CORPS OF ENGINEERS VISIT 6 DIVISION, COMMISSIONS SEVERAL PROJECTS
By: Our Reporter
The Commander Corps of Engineers (CCE), Major General Philips Eromosele, has today 12 December 2024, paid a working visit to Headquarters, 6 Division Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt Barracks, Rivers State. The visit was his maiden visit to the 6 Division Area of Responsibility.
The CCE paid an office call to the General Officer Commanding, the 6 Division, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, after which he proceeded to the 46 Engineer Brigade Counter Improvise Explosive Device Squadron, where he thereafter commissioned some projects. The projects commissioned include a Training Area and Laboratory, 26 Support Engineer Regiment Training sheds, and a block of 10 flats of one-bedroom apartments for Coporal and Below constructed by Headquarters 6 Division.
While addressing the troops of the 46 Engineer Brigade, the CCE charged them to remain good ambassadors of the Nigerian Army and, most importantly, role models to their subordinates. He also urged them to be patient with the system and eschew all manner of illegalities, as plans are on the ground for a better future in the NA.
In his welcome address, the Commanding Officer of, the 26 Support Engineer Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Usama Yakubu said he was spurred to construct the training shed in his unit to ensure rigorous training of his personnel to prepare them for both current and future challenges. This, he said, is under the CCE’s directive and mission statement, “To develop the capacity of the Nigerian Army Engineer for robust support to the NA in accomplishing assigned missions”. “Another purpose for the ultra-modern 150-capacity training shed with an office space for instructors and convenience for both male and female students respectively, beautiful furniture, and a serene and conducive atmosphere for learning was to equip both young officers and soldiers with basic knowledge and skills required before they proceed for local courses that will prepare them in carrying out both engineer and infantry roles in the field”, he added.
The highlights of the visit were the commissioning of multiple projects, a short presentation of Improvised Explosive Device Management by the Commander, 46 Engineer Brigade, Brigadier General Ekeoma Odoemele, an address to troops, presentation of souvenirs and group photographs.
COMMANDER CORPS OF ENGINEERS VISIT 6 DIVISION, COMMISSIONS SEVERAL PROJECTS
RETIREMENT MARKS A NEW BEGINNING, NOT AN END, SAYS CAS AT NAFRC GRADUATION CEREMONY
By: Our Reporter
The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has reassured retiring military personnel that leaving active service marks the beginning of a fulfilling new chapter in their lives, not an end. Speaking today, 12 December 2024, as the Special Guest of Honour at the Passing Out Ceremony of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) Participants Course 02/2024 in Oshodi, Lagos, the CAS lauded the graduands for their unshakable commitment and discipline throughout their military careers.
In his address, Air Marshal Abubakar congratulated the Commandant, graduating participants, and the entire NAFRC community on achieving a significant milestone. He highlighted the importance of the six-month training programme, which equipped personnel transitioning to civilian life with skills pertinent to entrepreneurship, management, and national development.
Reflecting on a popular military saying, “Soja come, Soja go, barracks remain,” the CAS emphasised that while individuals leave the Service, their values and contributions continue to shape the Armed Forces and the nation. He urged the graduands to carry forward the discipline, courage, and commitment they exhibited in uniform, becoming role models and ambassadors of the military profession in their communities.
Air Marshal Abubakar noted that retirement should not be seen as a death sentence but rather as a new beginning. “Do not entertain fears about your future,” he advised. “With the training, discipline, and skills you have acquired, as well as God’s guidance, you will enjoy a prosperous future with good health and sound mind.”
Paying tribute to fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives for the nation, the CAS also commended the families of the retirees for their unwavering support and sacrifices. He assured the audience of the Armed Forces’ commitment to the welfare of its personnel, both serving and retired, and expressed gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his dedication to capacity development within the military.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Mamman, thanked the special the Special Guest of Honour for honoring the invitation and gracing the occasion. He also extended a warm welcome to all distinguished personalities, commandants, commanders, special guests, and well-wishers in attendance. “Your presence here today is a clear manifestation of how dearly you hold this great institution,” he remarked, acknowledging support and commitment to the success of NAFRC and its graduating participants.
The event also featured an exhibition of various products and services created by the graduating class, as well as the commissioning of a 54-unit ensuite hostel block donated by the NAF to NAFRC. Dignitaries in attendance included the Presidents of the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA) and the NAF Officers Wives Association (NAFOWA), amongst many other distinguished personalities.
RETIREMENT MARKS A NEW BEGINNING, NOT AN END, SAYS CAS AT NAFRC GRADUATION CEREMONY
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