lock-up shops and solar-powered boreholes have been commissioned by Ogun State government to enhance market linkage, as well as agro-processing capacity of farmers and their communities.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Bolu Owotomo, disclosed this during the commissioning of agricultural infrastructural support to farmers under Federal Government of Nigeria/Ogun State Government-International Fund for Agricultural Development assisted Value Chain Development Programme (FGN/OGSG-VCDP-AF), at Imodi, Odogbolu, Atan, Ijebu North East and Ijebu Imusin, in Ijebu East Local Government Areas of the state.
Hon. Owotomo explained that provision of the facilities symbolised collective efforts to empower farmers through provision of tools and resources needed to thrive, adding that access to clean water for processing activities and adequate market facilities were fundamental to the success of the agricultural sector in the state and the country at large.
“As we commission these projects, let us reaffirm our commitment to supporting our farmers and continuing to invest in the agricultural sector. Together we can achieve remarkable progress and ensure a prosperous future for our state”, he said.
He highlighted some of the achievements of the intervention provided by the present administration to include, empowerment of 3,000 farmers with farm inputs under the Ogun NG-Cares, constructive partnership with institution and agricultural investors, aimed at enhancing food system, capacity building of 12,000 farmers on sustainable agriculture, under the VCDP, Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP) facilities training of stakeholders and distribution of production inputs to cassava and rice farmers, among others.
Contributing, National Programme Coordinator, VCDP, Hajia Fatimah Aliyu, represented by the Human Resource Advisor, Mallam Gidado Bello, pointed out that the objective was to improve the livelihood and living standard of farmers through intervention programmes, such as construction of facilities, calling on beneficiaries to ensure effective and proper utilisation of the facilities to enable government provide more.
On his part, the Acting State Coordinator, Mrs. Temitope Ajisafe, IFAD-VCDP, explained that selection of projects provided for beneficiaries was achieved by identifying and prioritising their needs after meeting necessary criteria, advising them to maximally put the facilities to use, to improve their quality of life.
Remarking, Oloko of Ijebu Imusin, Oba Stephen Onafowokan and Baale Imodi, High Chief Adewale Okusajo, expressed optimism that the projects would mark a significant milestone in the development of the communities by stimulating economic growth and creating employment opportunities for the youth.
Responding on behalf of the farmers, Mr. Adebanjo Olalekan, Mrs. Ajoke Adebanjo and Mr. Taiwo Adesanya, appreciated government for the support which would boost their sales and improve their wellbeing.
