The Special Senior Assistant (SSA) on Farm Settlement and Agriculture, Mr. Adewole Temitope, has emphasised the importance of farmers prioritizing their health while sustaining their crucial role in food production.

Mr. Adewole made the statement during the BAO Free Health Mission for farm managers and farmers at a farm settlement.

 The event, themed: “A Day Free Health Mission: Preparing Farm Managers and Farmers Physically and Mentally for the Upcoming Farming Season,” aimed to equip farmers for the challenges ahead.

He explained that the health screening aligns with the governor’s broader vision of improving healthcare access for all, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to the well-being of citizens across various sectors.

The initiative is targeted at farmers and farm managers within the state’s farm settlements, ensuring that they receive essential health checks at no cost. This includes free healthcare services for women and children, as well as free immunizations.

As part of efforts to complement the health programmes championed by Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Adewole stressed that the governor has launched several health initiatives.

“We observed that many farmers go to their farms without checking their health status. They are focused on maximizing profit without realizing that poor health can lower their productivity.

“By organizing this free health screening, we aim to help them understand their health conditions and seek necessary medical attention,” Adewole added.

Earlier, in his opening speech, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture, Ebenezer Boluwade, expressed support for the initiative.

 Speaking on his behalf, the Permanent Secretary for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ojo Ebenezer Babatope, praised the committee’s efforts and acknowledged the contributions of the state government.

Mr. Babatope advised participants to adhere strictly to the programmes’ guidelines and actively participate in the health screening exercises.

“Their commitment will ensure the success of the initiative and its benefits for the agricultural sector,” he stated.

Mrs. Bolanle Ekundayo, one of the beneficiaries, expressed her appreciation for the initiative, describing it as “laudable and highly beneficial.

The Farm Manager of Epero Farm Settlement, Mr. Adeju Adebayo Solomon, commended the Ekiti State government for its continued support for the agricultural sector, extending beyond just healthcare.

According to him, since Governor Oyebanji assumed office, there has been a noticeable transformation in agriculture across the state adding that farmers in Ekiti remain optimistic about the future, anticipating more government interventions to boost food production and improve their livelihoods.