STANLEY IDIETAKARE is a pioneer beneficiary of the Delta State Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme (YAGEP.).
He was trained and established in poultry production in the 2015/2016 YAGEP Cycle. Stanley hails from Ughelli North Local Government Area and has an HND in Public Administration from Imo State Polytechnic.
He is the CEO of Divine Progressive Farm located at YAGEP Farm Cluster, DARDA, Ibusa. Six years after establishment with a starter pack of 400 point of lay birds, 200 broilers, 150 bird feeds, well equipped poultry pens with battery cages and other technical support, he is still in business, got married and is a consultant to upcoming poultry farmers and a trainer. He tells his story.
“Initially we started very well based on the quality start-up given to us by the State Government, but there was the challenge with water which resulted in lots of mortality. I had to reduce the number of stocks. I had 700 layers at a time. I have completed several cycles of broilers and layers and it has been rewarding. Currently, I have 400 layers which lay 7 crates of eggs daily.
“What I appreciate most in the programme is the knowledge I acquired. I know so much about poultry business that I am now a consultant to so many poultry farmers. I set up poultry farms for my clients. I have trained so many students on internship. I thank God I have been able to stabilize my business. I now brood my layers and broilers. I no longer buy from others.
“Governor Okowa has tried. The programme needs to be sustained to enable more youths to embrace agriculture which is gainful employment for the unemployed.”
By Gertrude Onyekachukwu-Uteh
