William Eke, a youth farmer from Ngor Okpala Local Government Area of Imo State has expressed his gratitude to Governor Hope Uzodinma for the support from him that has helped in his cucumber farming.
Eke, popularly known for his “Ngor Okpala cucumber” made the disclosure on Friday when he paid an official visit to the Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the Governor, Oguwike Nwachuku in his office.
The cucumber farmer said that he had received a lot of support in form of fertiliser from Governor Uzodimma, noting that the Governor had also made it possible for him to use government facilities in Ngor Okpala Council to ply his trade.
Eke who said he started his cucumber farming with only N10,000 on a small space said today, he is proud of what he does and the gains therefore.
He said he remains grateful to the Governor and will continue to support his 3-R mantra administration.
He cautioned his fellow youths not to despise agriculture “because the sector has a lot of potential for them as government white collar jobs are no longer available.”
Eke who lauded the Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the Governor for his professional competence hinted that he has also mentored many youths from different parts of the state who are desirous of being proud farmers like himself. “There is joy in being independent and earning a decent living.”
He however solicited further assistance from the government in the area of transportation, seedlings, insecticides and even cash, as he intends to add onion, cabbage and tomatoes farming to the existing cucumber production.
Responding, Mr. Nwachuku congratulated Eke for the forsight in discovering his talent and passion early enough and urged him to remain focused in what he is doing.
The governor’s spokesman said Eke demonstrated heart of gratitude by coming to thank His Excellency for assisting him grow in his vocation, noting that the cucumber farmer represents the class of youths Governor Uzodimma is hungry to assist to pursue their dreams.
Mr. Nwachuku said he is not only proud of Eke, but that the Governor, the government and people of Imo State are proud of him.