By Salifu Usman, Abuja
Anticipation is reaching a fever pitch in Dekina local government area as the Aloko Oganenigu Agricultural Show prepares to open its gates. Thousands of farmers from within the community, across Kogi State, and even further afield are set to converge, ready to proudly display a diverse array of their agricultural produce at what promises to be a landmark event for the region’s agricultural sector.
Beyond the vibrant showcase of crops and livestock, the initiative holds a profound objective: to ignite a passion for agriculture among younger generations. Organisers envision the show as a catalyst, inspiring youth to embrace farming as a viable and rewarding pathway towards sustainable development and robust economic growth for the state.
The event is not merely a local affair; its significance is underscored by the high-profile attendance expected. Academia, key policymakers, top security experts, and a host of influential politicians are slated to grace the occasion. Notably, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, alongside both federal and state lawmakers, will be present, highlighting the government’s commitment to agricultural development.
Elder Michael Alfa, the visionary initiator and patron of the organising body, the Aloko Oganenigu Township Development Forum, expressed immense satisfaction with the overwhelming community support. “The overwhelming support received from individuals, groups, and stakeholders across the Oganenigu community has laid a strong foundation for what promises to be a historic and transformative agricultural event,” stated Elder Alfa. He further emphasised that this remarkable outpouring of unity, commitment, and shared responsibility reflects a common vision for development, enhanced food security, and the economic upliftment of Oganenigu community and beyond.
Elder Alfa extended his heartfelt appreciation to all donors and supporters, whose generosity has been instrumental in bringing the show to fruition. He noted that their contributions have not only energised the planning process but have also fortified the conviction that, with unity, even the most formidable challenges can be overcome. He used a powerful local adage to illustrate this point: “just as a united community can tie down a lion.” This sentiment resonates deeply within a community striving for progress and collective prosperity.
Providing an update on the extensive preparations, Aminu Haruna, chairman of the Aloko Oganenigu Township Development Forum, assured stakeholders that the organising team remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering an impactful, inclusive, and innovative agricultural exhibition. “As activities intensify, the organising team remains committed to delivering an impactful, inclusive, and innovative agricultural exhibition,” Hon. Haruna affirmed. He reiterated that the core aims of the event are multifaceted: to empower local farmers with new knowledge and opportunities, to inspire greater youth participation in the agricultural sector, and to robustly showcase the rich agro-potential of the Oganenigu community. Ultimately, these efforts are geared towards bolstering food security and fostering long-term sustainability within the region and Kogi State as a whole.