The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN, has opened new economic opportunities for 87 women and youths in Enugu State through a Federal Government poultry farming empowerment initiative designed to promote entrepreneurship, food security and grassroots economic development.
The beneficiaries received poultry farming starter packs during a 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, facilitated through the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), an agency under the ministry, is an ongoing nationwide intervention aimed at empowering citizens across all states of the federation through bioresource-based agricultural opportunities.
Under the programme, 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 to enable them establish and sustain poultry farming businesses.
The intervention combines practical training with productive resources to equip beneficiaries with the skills and materials required to generate income, develop small businesses and achieve economic independence.
## Udeh: Initiative Advances Food Security, Grassroots Development
Speaking at the programme, Udeh described the intervention as a practical demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive growth, food security and economic empowerment through biotechnology and innovation.
“Today, we translated our commitment to inclusive growth, food security and economic empowerment into tangible action”.
The minister said the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which 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 Udeh, the programme goes beyond training by providing beneficiaries with the productive resources and support needed to establish sustainable livelihoods, expand small businesses and achieve greater economic independence.
He expressed optimism that the 87 beneficiaries would effectively utilise the knowledge and resources provided to develop viable poultry businesses, 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 praised 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, strengthen agricultural productivity, create economic opportunities and support food security across the country.
