Farmers in the agrarian community of Ajowa Akoko in Akoko North West Local Government area of Ondo State have appealed to government at all levels to construct a bridge across the River Obanga to unlock access to vast stretches of fertile, uncultivated land.

They believe that the construction of the bridge would pave the way for mechanized farming and provide meaningful employment for young school leavers who are currently struggling to secure white-collar jobs.

Speaking with The Hope in a interview, a farmer, Badru Yusuf, lamented that the continued inaccessibility of the land has severely limited the community’s agricultural potential.

He stressed that the situation has stifled productivity and discouraged youth from venturing into farming.

Another farmer, Joti Adegoke, said the absence of bridge has negatively impacted socio-economic development and weakened local trade, especially between Ondo and neighboring Kogi State.

He, however, called on the government to urgently intervene, noting that improved access could stimulate commercial activities and attract investment to the local government area.