A farmer in Ondo, Idowu Oludare, has stressed the need for proper planning and security in the establishment of the proposed agricultural hubs, stating that the land must be divided into distinct sections, with security as a top priority.

According to him, “designated areas must be well-secured, with the presence of security personnel such as the military, police, and other relevant agencies,” he said.

He warned that if news of the project spreads, criminal elements might begin targeting farmers in the south west, creating problem for the success of the initiative.

In addition, Oludare highlighted the issue of labour shortage, calling on the government to step in and provide interventions.

He also underscored the importance of proper crop rotation stating, “some land must be left fallow for at least two or three years to maintain soil fertility and productivity.”

Expressing concerns about herder-farmer conflicts, he called for the immediate removal of Fulani herders from forested areas.

We advised that the agricultural hub should not be confined to a single senatorial district but should be expanded to cover all senatorial districts in the state.

Oludare commended the government’s initiative, describing it as a positive step for local farmers.

“We have artisan farmers, and this project will be beneficial for those willing to relocate to the designated area,” he stated.

However, he criticised the scheme for being more tailored towards investors rather than local farmers, arguing that accessibility remains a major challenge for grassroots farmers.