By Roseline Okakah

In a bid to enhance productivity, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has distributed palliatives which included formulated beef ration, salt lick and logistical support for transportation to flood affected livestock farmers in Ondo state

Speaking at the distribution site of the ministry in Akure office, the state coordinator, Mr Hakeem Ogundeko said the initiative was to alleviate the challenges faced by livestock farmers who were affected by the 2022 flooding in the state.

Ogundeko represented by Mrs Nusirat Ajana said cattle farmers were targeted to provide relief and enhance productivity in the wake of the devastating floods, even as he charged benefitting farmers to make judicious use of the palliatives.

Addressing the farmers, the Desk Officer, Department of Animal Husbandry Services of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Adeniyi Benjamin added that the palliatives were designed to provide succour and to cater for their needs.

While encouraging farmers on judicious use of the inputs, Benjamin assured of government’s continuous support based on improved productivity.

In his remarks, the State Chairman of Miyetti Allah, Alhaji Garuba Bello commended the government’s initiative, describing it as first of its kind since the administration of President Shehu Shagari.

Bello called on the people to continue to embrace peace in the society, the state and country at large and to cooperate with all government’s rules and regulations.

A Sheep and Goats farmer, Elder Kehinde Akanji, expressed happiness and applauded the Federal Government for the assistance.

Akanji advised government to be more closer to farmers for a better collaboration by visiting them at their farm sites to know the real farmers.

“They can get closer to us by visiting our farms so that they will be able to identify our problems.

“They are the experts, they know better and they are in the better position to advise us on what to do”, Akanji stressed.