Paschal Nnaemeka, CEO of Paschal Farms International has lauded the recent partnership between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the City of Atlanta, calling it a commendable and forward-thinking initiative. According to Nnaemeka, this collaboration, which focuses on the cultivation and export of sunflower and Jatropha Curcas, has immense potential to enhance Nigeria’s agricultural exports while aligning with the global push for sustainable agriculture and energy.

He highlighted the value of sunflower and jatropha as high-demand crops. “Sunflower is not only a key source of edible oil but also contributes to the production of animal feed, making it a versatile crop with significant market demand,” he said. “Jatropha, on the other hand, is gaining attention for its potential in biodiesel production, offering an alternative energy source that could reduce dependency on fossil fuels.”

Nnaemeka emphasized the importance of empowering women-owned businesses through this project, noting that women are the backbone of agriculture in many rural communities. “Providing them with resources and opportunities to participate in high-value crop production can lead to transformative changes in their economic standing and overall community welfare,” he added.

He also praised the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, for her visionary leadership in securing this groundbreaking partnership. “Her proactive approach reflects a deep understanding of the vital role that agriculture plays in both economic development and social empowerment,” Nnaemeka said.

Nnaemeka noted the Minister’s strategic foresight in leveraging Nigeria’s climatic advantages to enhance crop productivity. “By prioritizing the cultivation of high-value crops like sunflower and Jatropha Curcas, Minister Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye is not only advancing Nigeria’s agricultural sector but also ensuring that women, who are often the unsung heroes of farming, are placed at the forefront of this initiative,” he explained.

As an advocate for inclusion in farming and agriculture, Nnaemeka believes this initiative sets a precedent for how targeted, strategic investments can drive both economic growth and social development. He emphasized the need for continued prioritization of inclusive participation, ensuring that marginalized groups, especially women and smallholder farmers, are not left behind in the pursuit of national and global food security goals. “Under the Minister’s guidance, this partnership holds the promise of ushering in a new era of economic growth and social empowerment for Nigeria,” he concluded, expressing hope that it could serve as a model for similar initiatives across Africa and beyond.