The Benue State Executive Council has approved the establishment of a new agency to be known as the Benue State Agro-Climatic and Watershed Management Agency.
State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Benjamin Ashaver made this known at the Government House Makurdi after the State Executive Council meeting.
While briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting, the commissioner said other decisions included the adoption of the white paper and implementation of Government ‘s decision on the report of the 2024 agricultural input verification committee.
Another white paper drafting committee was also put in place by council which comprises the Secretary to the State Government and some commissioners to also unravel what transpired at the main ministry of agriculture in respect to supplies and distribution of farming inputs during the same period under review.
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This he explained is aimed to facilitate payment of genuine vendors who supplied fertiliser and other inputs to the State Government last year and are yet to be paid.
While highlighting some gaps that may have led to fraud and irregularities of last year’s supply which has in turn hindered payment to the suppliers, Ashaver assured farmers of absolute quality control moving forward.
He then gives reasons for the establishment of the agro-climate and water shed management agency.
The Agric commissioner equally clears the air regarding financial support made for internationally displaced persons including the one billion Naira donation by the Wife of the President Oluremi Tinubu insisting that such funds are in the coffers of the State Government.
Ashaver said council was also briefed about some job placements by the Republic of Belarus where the State is a major beneficiary as about 40 Youths
are now undergoing various skill acquisition programmes.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
