The Second International Training of Trainers in Agricultural Sustainability Initiatives for Nigerian Farmers (ITTANSIF) was launched on May 15, 2023, at Maejo University in Thailand by the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO), Thailand Chapter.
The event began on a high note as several distinguished speakers, including Maejo University President Dr. Weerapon Thongma, His Excellency Mr. Djebah, the Nigerian Ambassador to Thailand, Dr. Lloyd Nwafor, the President of NIDO Thailand Chapter, and Mrs. Chinwe Ezirim, the programme coordinator from Nigeria, spoke at the opening ceremony.
In their separate addresses, they praised NIDO Thailand and Maejo University for their efforts to help Nigerian farmers succeed in their respective agricultural fields by learning new and advanced agricultural practices.
Present at the event were twenty participating farmers drawn from different states across all the geopolitical zones of Nigeria.
The farmers arrived in Chiang Mai, Thailand, on May 14, 2023; and were warmly received.
“The farmers will embark on three weeks of training and hands-on instruction in specific areas of agriculture,” said NIDO Thailand in a press release signed by the President of NIDO Thailand, Dr. Nwafor C. Lloyd and the Secretary, Mr. Chris Mbazuigwe. “Each of them will receive a diploma and a transcript of their academic records from Maejo University once they have finished. These farmers will be expected to learn the A to Z of rice growing, including micro-irrigation systems for year-round output.”
“The course will be primarily concerned with land development and preparation for rice farming, micro-irrigation design for optimal yield in small paddy fields, organic enrichment of paddy fields to reduce the use of inorganic fertilizer, and control strategies for fungal and pest infestations.”
“Participants will also gain knowledge on vegetable and fruit farming for both local and export markets. The focus of the programme will be on land development, construction, and preparation for commercial tree crops and fruit farming, such as coconut, mango, orange, and guava. Emphasis will also be placed on irrigation techniques for year-round production, including bird management.”
“Another important aspect of the programme is learning how to turn soil for urban commercial farming. Participants will learn how to turn agro-waste into fertiliser and also learn about soil preparation for potted flowers, commercial tomato and pepper growing, and fruit cultivation. Additionally, the programme will cover how to make alternative soil for potted plants.”
This initiative aims to empower Nigerian farmers with the necessary skills to achieve self-sufficiency in producing essential food products, with a focus on items that currently require a significant amount of foreign exchange, such as rice, chicken, vegetables, and animal feed. This initiative aligns with the Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) of the Federal Government of Nigeria.
This project has received moderate sponsorship from the NIDO Thailand Chapter in collaboration with Maejo University, which is Thailand’s oldest and most reputable agricultural institution, established in 1934. The goal of this project is to revive the agricultural sector that NIDO has gained, which has experienced a significant decline in relevance.
Furthermore, the programme aims to tackle the issue of rising youth unemployment in Nigeria, as many young individuals lack the necessary skills to succeed upon graduation. extensive experience and knowledge over the years, leading to the conclusion that Nigeria should focus on understanding the factors contributing to Thailand’s success in agriculture.”
The press release further stated that, “This can be achieved through training and skill development in various agricultural aspects. Thailand holds top rankings as the leading producer of rice and shrimp, as well as the third largest producer of poultry globally and the 14th largest exporter of food.”
In close cooperation with the Nigerian Embassy, NIDO Thailand initially launched the first edition of ITTANSIF in 2020. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic prevented NIDO Thailand from holding further editions.
