By Mohammed Dala Lawan
A training on climate-smart farming and safe food storage has been organized for selected farmers in Yobe State, by the Sharing Education and Learning for Life Foundation (SELL Foundation) as part of efforts to address growing food security challenges.
Speaking at the event held in Damaturu, the state capital, the Project Manager of the foundation, Beji Jibe, said the training was introduced in response to changing weather patterns that have negatively affected traditional farming methods.
The two days training which aimed at helping farmers adopt smart agricultural practices that improve productivity and sustainability, Mr Beji Jibe, explained that excessive use of chemical fertilizers and harmful preservatives remains a major concern, stressing that Nigerian produce, particularly beans, faces rejection in some international markets due to high chemical residues and poor storage practices.
He noted that despite these risks, such produce is still consumed locally because of inadequate testing systems, exposing consumers to potential health hazards.
According to him, participants were selected mainly from subsistence farming groups, with plans to scale up the programme to reach larger-scale farmers through partnerships with other organizations.
He emphasized that seed quality is critical to productivity, noting that the use of uncertified market grains as seeds significantly reduces yields.
The Programme Manager, said despite the funding limitations, the foundation is adopting a multiplier approach by training participants to serve as ambassadors within their communities.
He added that strict follow-up and monitoring mechanisms have been put in place to ensure that beneficiaries apply the knowledge acquired and share it with others.
Some participants expressed optimism following the training, Jafide John, said the programme had restored her confidence in farming after suffering losses in the previous season.
She explained that lessons on improved storage, ventilation, and seed selection had changed her perception and motivated her to farm again on a larger scale.
Another participant, Maigamo Jesse, pointed out that the training enhanced his understanding of matching seeds to soil types and the importance of adequate knowledge before venturing into farming.
He pledged to apply the lessons learned and share them with others in his community.
The foundation says the initiative aligns with its mission of empowering farmers and young people with practical knowledge that promotes food security, healthier farming practices, and sustainable livelihoods across communities.
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