Food Security: Enugu Agric Ministry, ENSYFA Introduce Modern Farming To Inmates

In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering inmates through agriculture, the Enugu State Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, in partnership with the Enugu State Young Farmers Association (ENSYFA), held a transformative training on modern farming techniques at the Enugu State Correctional Centre on April 7, 2025.

The event focused on innovative practices such as sack farming and hydroponics, offering inmates the opportunity to gain hands-on knowledge in cultivating crops with minimal land, water, and resources. The training sought to not only equip participants with practical skills in food production but also introduce them to the full scope of agribusiness through the exploration of agriculture’s value chains—from production, processing, packaging, marketing to distribution.

The event was declared open by the Deputy Comptroller of Enugu Correctional Centre, Mr. Sunday A. Igwe, who described the day as “epoch-making.” He commended the inmates for their growing commitment to personal development and applauded the Ministry and ENSYFA for initiating a programme that will foster self-reliance and self-sufficiency among inmates.

Representing the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Hon. Patrick Ubru, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Victor Ngwu, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to inclusive agricultural development. He outlined the state’s broader agricultural agenda and encouraged the inmates to take the opportunity seriously, noting that agriculture remains a viable pathway to economic independence and reintegration into society.

Delivering the keynote training was Kenneth Eze, President of ENSYFA and a leading voice in youth-led agriculture in the state. Speaking passionately about the future of farming, Eze emphasized that modern agriculture has evolved beyond the traditional constraints of land, labour, and capital.

> “Gone are the days when lack of land or funds stopped people from farming,” he said. “With innovations like sack farming and hydroponics, anyone can grow food anywhere. As entrepreneurs, we must approach agriculture as a business—solving problems creatively.”

He further highlighted the importance of building Character, Competence, and Credibility (the three Cs) in order to attract support and funding, even from within one’s immediate circle.

Participants also had the chance to ask questions in a vibrant interactive session, where concerns such as insecurity affecting farmers and herder conflicts were raised. The organisers acknowledged these challenges and assured participants that government and relevant stakeholders are working on long-term solutions.

Also in attendance were Mr. Ivo Theophilus, Director at the Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Florence, Public Relations Officer, and ENSYFA members including Utazi Michael, Onyeka Ugwunze, and Favour Afamefuna.

The event concluded on a high note as sacks of farm kits containing crops and inputs were distributed to the inmates, marking a new beginning in their journey toward self-sufficiency through agriculture.

The partnership between the Ministry and ENSYFA continues to demonstrate the state government’s commitment to empowerment, rehabilitation, and food security—one innovative programme at a time.