ibironkeeniola 
Rice farmers in Bayelsa state have lauded the drive of the government at all levels towards ensuring that there is sufficient rice across the country.
Speaking to newsmen in Yenagoa, State Chairman of the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), Mr. Ezekiel Ogbianko disclosed that the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP) was one of the best initiatives that has upheaved its members including those in the rural areas, out of lack and poverty.
According to him, “The Federal government, President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration has done well to our members and other farmers across states in the country; the issue of loan and inputs supply cannot be left out.”
He added that over 950 young farmers across the eight local government areas of Bayelsa were engaged in mechanized farming in 2019.
“I am happy for our members in Bayelsa because we are gradually coming up as one of the rice-producing states.
“Only in 2019, we cleared and cultivated rice in over 5, 000 hectares of land,” Ogbianko said.
SOURCE: AGRONIGERIA