By Joke Kujenya
TAKING a strategic stance to boost agricultural output and dietary quality, the Oyo State government has equipped 165 young farmers and women with essential skills.
Covering cultivation methods, pest management, and processing techniques for three key crops, the training aims to elevate both nutrition standards and economic force.
Under the guidance of Agricultural and Rural Development Commissioner, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, the one-day session concentrated on Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato (OFSP), Vitamin A Casava and Vitamin A Maize.
This initiative not only seeks to enrich nutritional content but also to augment the value of agricultural produce, thus reinforcing food security across the state.
Conducted in collaboration with the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), the training unfolded at the House of Chiefs, Parliament Building Secretariat in Ibadan. Attendees also received guidance on optimizing yields per hectare and enhancing crop processing techniques.
Emphasizing the importance of the ‘Training the Trainer’ programme, Olaleye underscored its role in cushioning the effects of fuel subsidy removal, offering practical solutions to farmers’ challenges.
Furthermore, the Commissioner encouraged farmers to adopt superior cassava stem varieties, citing their potential for increased yields per hectare, reiterating the state government’s dedication to Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER) initiatives, including the equitable distribution of resources to poultry, fish, and pig farmers statewide.
In her address, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development Permanent Secretary, Mrs Christiana Abioye, lauded the government’s farmer support initiatives, recognizing the pivotal role of sound agronomic practices in boosting casava yields.
Barrister John Akpata, representing GAIN, commended the Oyo state for fostering an enabling agricultural environment, highlighting her NGO’s expanded reach to all 33 local government areas, signaling heightened prospects for enhanced nutrition through increased production.
Expressing appreciation for the government’s efforts, Adewumi Abass, chairman, Oyo State chapter of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), emphasized the state’s potential as a key contributor to Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.
Present at the ToT included Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture, Hon Ojedokun Peter, Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs, Hom Mrs. Olufunke Comforter and Professor Folake Samuel, among other notable state officials.
