By Suleiman Yakubu

Niger State NUJ Chairman Comrade Abu Nmodu (right) and FADAMA Project Coordinator Alhaji Shehu Kudu Mohammed discuss collaborative efforts to support rural farmers and journalists.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Niger State, Comrade Abu Nmodu, has called for a strengthened partnership with government agencies to ensure that rural farmers and journalists benefit from their impactful programs.
During a courtesy visit to the Niger State FADAMA Project Coordinator, Alhaji Shehu Kudu Mohammed, in Minna, Comrade Nmodu emphasised the importance of including journalists in FADAMA’s activities, noting that many journalists are also engaged in farming.
He highlighted that effective collaboration between NUJ and FADAMA could significantly enhance the living standards of rural communities. Comrade Nmodu assured that the NUJ is committed to supporting FADAMA’s initiatives.
The NUJ Chairman praised FADAMA for its contributions, particularly in infrastructural development and providing free agricultural inputs to peasant farmers in the state.
In response, Alhaji Shehu Kudu Mohammed revealed that over 5,000 peasant farmers benefitted from free tractor services provided by the Niger State FADAMA office during the last farming season across the state’s three senatorial zones.
He added that the federal government, through FADAMA, has implemented various programs to alleviate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on vulnerable Nigerians, including those in Niger State.
Alhaji Mohammed explained that under the Area Two program, which comprises four components, farmers received free inputs such as fertilisers, chemicals, and seeds, along with implements for poultry and fish farming.
Under the FADAMA Delivery Leave Indicator (DLI), the agency distributed bags of rice, maize, sorghum, and fertiliser to farmers. Additionally, poor poultry farmers received 50 day-old chicks, bags of feed, and drugs to help them become self-reliant.
The agency also provided clusters of ten farmers with solar-powered irrigation pumps and constructed feeder roads, culverts, and mini-bridges to facilitate the transportation of farm produce.
Alhaji Mohammed assured that journalists would be included in FADAMA’s programs and urged them to publicise the agency’s activities to benefit rural farmers.  

By Suleiman Yakubu

The Chairman of Niger Tornadoes Management Committee (TMC), Engr. Ibrahim Dada Maikunkele, has pledged ongoing support for grassroots football initiatives. He made this commitment during the finals of the Bosso Local Government Football Council’s Premier and Pro Leagues, held recently at Maikunkele Township Football Field in his honor.
Engr. Maikunkele expressed his excitement and gratitude for being associated with grassroots football, thanking the organizers for the recognition. As a FIFA-licensed player intermediary and founder of Ibro Dada Sports Synergy, he noted the progress Bosso Local Government has made in grassroots football, urging them to continue their efforts.
He emphasized the importance of starting sports initiatives at the local level, stating that success at this stage ensures a strong foundation for higher levels. Engr. Maikunkele encouraged other local government football councils in the state to promote grassroots football, expressing his desire to see 100 percent Nigerlites playing for Niger Tornadoes.
“As the Chairman of Niger Tornadoes, I always hope to have one hundred percent Nigerlites playing for the team. It would be beneficial for both the players and the state,” he said.
Highlighting football’s evolution from a leisure activity to a business, he pointed out the potential for players to support their communities. “Look at Sadio Mane and his commitment. That’s what football can do,” he added.
Engr. Maikunkele urged young boys to seize the opportunities provided and make the most of them for their future and their communities.
In the tournament, Maitumbi United emerged as champions of the 2024 Bosso LG Football Council Premier League, defeating Bosso United by a lone goal. Trophies, medals, certificates, cash, and other prizes were awarded to teams, individual players, and coaches who excelled during the tournament.