The Oyo State Government, in collaboration with the Federal Government, has commenced the free distribution of 21,000 bags of assorted fertilizers to over 10,500 farmers in the state.
At the flag-off ceremony held at OYSADA Warehouse, Fertilizer Store, Laniya, Ojongbodu area, Oyo town, no fewer than 250 farmers from Akinyele Local Government area received two bags of fertilizers each to boost their agricultural businesses.
The fertilizers, donated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to the Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, aim to cushion the effects of the oil subsidy removal on farmers across the country.
In his keynote address, State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, described the event as a testament to the Seyi Makinde-led administration’s resolve to increase food production and boost the state’s economy.
The Commissioner stated that the gesture will improve crop productivity, enhance food security, and increase the income of rural farmers. He added that the state government is committed to boosting agricultural productivity and positioning farmers for sustainable growth and prosperity.
In an interview, the Commissioner expressed appreciation for the governor’s support for farmers in the state, stating that the governor released funds promptly to evacuate 21,000 bags of fertilizers from Port Harcourt and Lokoja, Kogi State.
The Oyo State Coordinator, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Kakulu Omonele, represented by Mrs. Bilkis AbduLateef, noted that the CBN donated 100,000 metric tonnes (2,000,000 bags) of assorted fertilizers to the Federal Government to enhance food security in Nigeria.
Beneficiaries commended the state and federal governments for meeting their needs, describing the gesture as a first of its kind in the country. They promised to make judicious use of the fertilizers and expressed optimism for a bountiful harvest in the next few months.
Attendees included the lawmaker representing Atiba State Constituency in the House of Assembly, Hon. Oyekola Gbenga, State Chairman, All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Mr. Adewole Adewunmi, and Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Labour Matters, Comrade Titilade Sodo, among others.
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