By Adedotun Ajayi

As part of his administration’s commitment to enhancing food security and supporting the agricultural sector, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Friday officially launched the distribution of fertilisers to farmers across Ondo State.

The flag-off ceremony, which took place at the Agric Warehouse in Akure, attracted a large turnout of farmers, agricultural stakeholders, and government officials.

During the ceremony, Governor Aiyedatiwa initiated the distribution of 5,520 bags of NPK 20-10-10, 4,140 bags of NPK 27-13-13, 4,140 bags of NPK 15-15-15, and 4,200 bags of Urea fertilisers to farmers in all 18 local government areas.

He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for facilitating the fertiliser supply through the Central Bank of Nigeria, acknowledging it as a crucial step to boost food production.

The Governor assured that the distribution would be conducted fairly and transparently, emphasising that the fertilisers are not for sale and must not be politicised.

“Our administration is committed to ensuring that our palliatives reach the intended beneficiaries. We will not disappoint the people of Ondo State,” Aiyedatiwa affirmed.

Aiyedatiwa further emphasised the urgent need to tackle food insecurity, which he described as a global challenge affecting Nigeria and Ondo State.

“Food insecurity is a serious issue that demands our immediate attention. This can only be achieved through comprehensive interventions that enhance food production at every level,” Aiyedatiwa stated.

The Governor identified several factors contributing to food scarcity, including insecurity, lack of financing, poor road networks, climate change, urbanisation, and limited access to farmland. He stressed the importance of improving security for farmers and providing them with the necessary infrastructure and resources to boost their productivity.

To address these challenges, Aiyedatiwa highlighted several government initiatives. “We have undertaken the construction of rural roads through the Agency for Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), including the Oda – Cocoa Camp and Idanre – Bajare Roads,” he noted.

Additionally, he mentioned that his administration has enhanced security by distributing vehicles to the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to improve surveillance across the state.

The Governor also recounted previous interventions, such as the distribution of over 1,200 metric tonnes of maize and various food items across the state. He announced new measures, including a N1 billion fund for subsidised agricultural inputs and tractor hiring, and another N1 billion for subsidised food commodities.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Senior Special Assistant on Agriculture and Agribusiness, who also serves as the Chairman of the Committee on Agriculture and Food Security, Rotimi Wemimo, emphasised that thorough investigations will be conducted to ensure that the fertilisers are used effectively and reach those who need them the most.

Echoing the same sentiments, Mr. Ayodele Olamide, Chairman of the Rice Farmers Association, Mr. Oloruntoba Olufemi, Chairman of the Cassava Growers, and Chief Adejo Abiodun, Chairman of OSACA, all expressed their profound gratitude to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for this pivotal initiative. They highlighted that the distribution of fertilisers comes at a crucial time and will significantly enhance their farming operations.

The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; State APC Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin; along with members of the State Executive Council and other top government officials.