News in Brief:
– Ondo state government is prioritising improved farmer security to tackle kidnappings and killings that threaten food production.
– The state is also launching agricultural projects and infrastructure improvements to boost food security and support farmers with technology adoption.
Ondo state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has pledged to prioritise the security of farmers as a key strategy to increase food production and reduce hunger within the state. He made this pledge during the inauguration of the Ondo State Agricultural Commodities Association (OSACA) executive members, recently.
Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, the governor highlighted various initiatives undertaken by the administration to support agriculture and promote food security in Ondo State. These initiatives include agricultural projects and policies which align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
They disclosed the contribution of 1,200 metric tons of grains to farmers as a palliative measure. Also, other initiatives include rural infrastructure development, through the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP). The project is the administration’s drive in undertaking significant construction and rehabilitation of access roads in rural communities.
Meanwhile, the government commended the new OSACA leadership and urged farmers to focus on increasing food security, reducing agricultural product prices, and embracing technological advancements to enhance production.
In his response, the newly appointed OSACA Chairman, Chief Abiodun Adejo, expressed appreciation for government support but stressed increased focus on farmer security. He identified kidnapping, killings, and crop destruction by herders as major threats deterring farmers.
Increasing security for farmers appears to be gaining momentum among state governments in Nigeria. Some days earlier, Enugu state had announced a specialised unit, the Agro-Rangers Squad, to tackle security challenges faced by farmers in the state. In addition, Ekiti state, which is in the same geopolitical zone as Ondo, inaugurated a new security outfit, the Ekiti Agro Marshals, to safeguard farmlands.
This trend is not isolated has there have been several calls for improved security to encourage farmers return to farms and discourage others from leaving the venture due to insecurity.
