Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has approved the distribution of 24,000 bags of fertilizer to farmers across the state as part of efforts to boost food production.
The initiative, flagged off during a ceremony in Abeokuta, is part of a broader programme under the federal government initiative led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to achieve food security and sufficiency nationwide.
Governor Abiodun maintained that agriculture remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, providing millions with sustenance, livelihoods, and job opportunities.
He noted that global food production is not keeping pace with the growing population, so it is imperative for more people to engage in farming.
Abiodun highlighted that his administration is intensifying efforts to tackle food inflation in the state. He has already allocated land to members of the state council, the House of Assembly, and the judiciary as part of the “back-to-farm” agenda.
He also inaugurated the state committee of the Central Bank of Nigeria to oversee fertilizer distribution and urged them to ensure transparency in their operations.
The governor stated that 12,000 farmers will benefit from the program, with the first phase targeting about 7,000 farmers. Beneficiaries include members of Cassava and Rice Farmers Associations, Agro-Services Corporation Farmers, Agricultural Development Farmers, and farmers from Ogun State’s 20 local government areas.
“This initiative is more than just distributing fertilisers,” Abiodun remarked, adding, “It represents our collective resolve to support the agricultural sector and ensure our farmers have the resources they need to cultivate their lands effectively and efficiently.”
The state’s commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Bolu Owotomo, lauded the various agricultural initiatives under Governor Abiodun’s administration and urged beneficiaries to use the fertilisers for their intended purposes to maximise the benefits.