By Matthew Ajai-Kume
The Benue State Government is to establish an International Yam Market in Agan, Makurdi Local Government Area of the state.
Governor Samuel Ortom who disclosed this when the leadership of National Association of Yam Farmers, Processors and Marketers paid him a courtesy call at the New Banquet Hall, Benue People’s House, Makurdi said the 500 Hectares of land allocated for the purpose when finally constructed will have international standard facilities
According to the Governor explained that, Benue State is the largest producer of yam in Nigeria and should take advantage of this unique position.
He called on the people of the state to indulge massively in agriculture to make life more meaningful.
Governor Ortom commended the National President of the association ,Prof Simon Irtwange and other members of the association for their passion for yam production and urged other Benue Sons and daughters to exhibit similar passion on other agricultural products for the state to maintain its status as the Food Basket of the Nation.
The Governor amongst other things promised to provide Hilux Van for the President of the association; weight bridge for Zaki Biam and other incentives,
Earlier in his address, the National President of the Association, Professor Simon Irtwange appreciated Governor Samuel Ortom for attracting three major yam value chain development projects from the Federal Government to Benue State.
“The development projects are: Solar Powered Cold Room for Yam Preservation, North Bank ,Makurdi, Zaki Biam Yam Agro Industrial Estate Facilities and Zaki Biam International Yam Market ” Prof Irtwange said.
Prof Irtwange appealed to the Governor to provide Hilux Van for the president of the association as well as sustain support to the association in other development areas.
