The management of Lift Above Poverty Organization (LAPO) yesterday said it has spent N5.7billion to empower no fewer than 108,367 rural farmers in 19 states of the country during last year.
Speaking at the annual media forum of the Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in Benin City, Executive Director of LAPO, Sabina Idowu-Osehobo, said the farmers were empowered under LAPO Agricultural and Rural Development Initiative (LARDI).

Osehobo said as part of efforts to boost farming operations in the period under review, pointed out that the farmers were provided with high yield inputs and extension services.

While explaining that LARDI, established in 2007, was geared towards promoting rural economy through agricultural development, improving income, food security and general living conditions of poor rural households, particularly women-headed households and youths, said the beneficiaries were into cassava, cocoa, animal husbandry and fish farming, among others.

She added that in 2016, 76,000 farmers were empowered with N3.4 billion billion through the LARDI. Osehobo said LARDI was deeply committed to its mandate of developing the rural economy with innovative and affordable agricultural financing and support services. LAPO currently maintains 120 branches in 19 states of the country.