The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN, has empowered 87 women and youths in Enugu State through the Federal Government’s Bioresource-Based Poultry Farming Initiative, aimed at promoting food security, entrepreneurship and grassroots economic development.

The beneficiaries in Enugu received poultry starter packs under the One-Day Training and Empowerment Programme on Bioresource-Based Farming Techniques held in partnership with the Enugu State Government, on Friday, October 30, 2026.

The initiative—an ongoing nationwide intervention structured to reach every state across the Federation—is facilitated through the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), an agency under the Ministry.

Of the 87 beneficiaries, 40 women and youths drawn from the 17 local government areas of Enugu State received hundreds of day-old chicks each, several bags of starter, grower and finisher feeds, drinking and feeding troughs, essential antibiotics and logistical support allowances.

Another 47 beneficiaries received varying quantities of poultry starter packs and logistical support allowances during the programme.

The intervention is designed to equip participants with the resources and practical knowledge required to establish and sustain poultry farming businesses.

*Udeh: Initiative Targets Food Security, Economic Independence Through Biotechnology, Innovation*

Speaking on the initiative, Udeh described the intervention as a practical demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive growth, food security and economic empowerment using the tools of biotechnology and innovation.

“Today, we translated our commitment to inclusive growth, food security and economic empowerment into tangible action”.

He added that the programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which he said prioritises opportunities for citizens, food security and grassroots economic development.

“Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Renewed Hope Agenda continues to prioritise opportunities that empower citizens, strengthen food security and promote grassroots economic development”.

According to the minister, the intervention goes beyond training to provide beneficiaries with productive resources and support to establish sustainable livelihoods, grow small businesses and achieve greater economic independence.

He expressed optimism that the 87 beneficiaries would utilise the knowledge and resources provided to develop productive ventures, support their families and contribute to the local economy.

The minister commended President Tinubu and Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for their partnership and shared commitment to improving the livelihoods of Nigerians.

He also commended the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NABDA, Professor Abdullahi Mustapha, and his team for their dedication to translating biotechnology and bioresource-based innovations into practical solutions that improve livelihoods and empower citizens.

The initiative forms part of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology’s efforts to promote bioresource-based farming techniques as a means of strengthening agricultural productivity, creating economic opportunities and supporting food security across the country.