Agriculture has been reaffirmed as the ultimate lifeline of human existence and a critical driver for national growth. The Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, Most Rev. Dr. Ernest Obodo made this submission during the 7th graduation ceremony of the Mary Agro Farm Institute, an affiliate of Godfrey Okoye University, held at the institute’s premises in Udi, Enugu State.
Bishop Obodo noted that a nation like Nigeria blessed with an abundance of fertile land and a vibrant youth population has no business neglecting the agricultural sector. He emphasized that farming should be championed as a primary avenue for youth engagement and economic empowerment.
Through the Mary Agro Farm Institute, the Church is directly tackling unemployment by providing a comprehensive, six-month intensive agricultural training program. To ensure the 27 newly minted graduates transition seamlessly into the industry, Bishop Obodo revealed that each beneficiary receives a startup grant of five hundred thousand naira (N500,000) to launch their agribusiness ventures.
Echoing the call for excellence, the Vice-Chancellor of Godfrey Okoye University, Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke reminded the graduates that skills mean very little without strong character and financial discipline. He urged them to manage their startup funds prudently to build sustainable enterprises.
In a practical demonstration of support, Fr. Prof. Anieke, on behalf of the university, handed out cash prizes to outstanding graduates. The award for Best in Character pulled N150,000, while the Best Graduating Student in Academics and the Most Dedicated Graduand each received N100,000. Adding to the excitement, the Vice-Chancellor promised immediate employment opportunities at Godfrey Okoye University for select exceptional graduates.
Speaking on behalf of his peers, one of the trainees, Prince Kennedy Chukwumaeze, described the six-month training as an invaluable experience that has completely rewired their approach to farming. He expressed deep gratitude for the empowerment and challenged other Nigerian youths to look toward agriculture as a proud and dependable pathway to self-reliance.
Congratulations to the Graduands.
