Farming of yam at Akpo received a boost as Augustine Okwy Okpala, a philanthropist, bestowed awards on four farmers, who harvested the biggest yield in yams.

Okpala, managing director, Nnek International Company Ltd., Lagos gave the awards, during the New Yam Festival at Agbenu Village Cultural Field, Akpo on Aug. 25.

“My interest is to promote yam farming and increase food production. I urge contestants who did not win to put in more effort next year,’’ Okpala said.

He commended the agric policies of Anambra State, describing it as second to none in Nigeria.

He eulogised the governor over strides in security matters, stating, “I now come home without fear.

“In the past, before the coming of Gov. Obiano, it used to be difficult because of fears of kidnappers, car snatchers and other bandits that keep me and many other indigenes away from the village.”

Okpala, however, appealed to the governor to remember his campaign promises of constructing Uga-Amesi-Akpo-Ogboji road project, which was awarded during the time of Governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju.

The beneficiaries are Isaac Ononiru, who won the first prize, motorcycle (CG125) with his yam weighing 47kg and Cajethan  Okpalaeze,  who placed second, winning motorcycle mate CY90, with his yam weighing 41.4kg,

Others are Mathias Okpalaugo, who placed third; he won a sizeable generating set, with his yam weighing 32.4kg and J.O. Mbakwe, who won consolation fourth position.

He was present with undisclosed cash prize, with his yam weighing 30.4kg.

The beneficiaries thanked Okpala, praying God to replenish his pocket. They also promised to perform better work during the next planting season.

The event witnessed the cutting of the roast new yam by Cyprian Okpala, the Obi of Akpo, who danced to the cultural nkwa alongside the title holders.

It also featured masquerades of various kinds that added colour to the event.

– Aug. 28, 2018 @ 17:47 GMT |