Abeokuta, Ogun State – Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, launched the distribution of 24,000 bags of fertilizer to local farmers on Monday. The initiative aims to combat food inflation and improve food security in the state.
The ceremony took place at the Olusegun Osoba Press Centre in the Governor’s Office, where Abiodun also inaugurated the State Committee of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in partnership with the state government.
Governor Abiodun emphasized that the program, part of the federal government’s efforts under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is designed to enhance national food production and security. He highlighted agriculture’s crucial role in providing livelihoods and job opportunities, noting that global food production is struggling to keep pace with the growing population.
The distribution will benefit 12,000 farmers, with 7,000 receiving support in the first phase. This includes various associations such as the Cassava and Rice Farmers Associations and Agro-Services Corporation Farmers.
Abiodun called for transparency in the fertilizer distribution process and encouraged farmers to view this initiative as a significant business opportunity. He also announced that his administration has allocated land for members of the State Council, House of Assembly, and Judiciary to support the “back to farm” agenda.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Bolu Owotomo, praised the governor’s commitment to agriculture and urged beneficiaries to use the fertilizers effectively.
The event was attended by several notable figures, including Deputy Governor Engr (Mrs) Noimot Salako-Oyedele, State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Bolu Owotomo, Onimeko of Imeko, Oba Benjamin Olanite, and the State Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, Alhaja Ganiyat Kusimo.
