By Fatima Muraina

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Farmers in Ondo State have called on the state government to be more proactive and fulfil its promises on land preparation for farmers ahead of the rainy season to enhance food  production.

Speaking through their group leader, the farmers noted that the government is yet to fulfil its pledge to clear land for food production, a promise made since last year.

According to them, agriculture, unlike other sectors, is seasonal and should not be neglected.

 They stressed that agricultural programmes must be implemented effectively and treated as a priority.

Speaking with The Hope, the State chairman of the Maize Association of Nigeria, Mr Apata Patrick, urged the government to ensure that farmers receive the necessary support by March or April.

“If we want to plant maize, we should do so by April latest.

“As of now, there is no sign of land preparation or seed distribution. If the government truly wants to support farmers, it must act on time,” he stated.

Regarding land tractorisation, he said farmers were still waiting for the government to fulfil its promise.

“Last year, they promised to provide about 150 hectares for farmers, but this was not done.

“We are still hoping that this year, they will come to our aid, because tractorisation is crucial for farming, and the cost has become prohibitive,” he said.

Similarly, the State chairman of Rice Producers, Mr Ayodele Oluwagbenga, stated that the government was unable to fulfil its promise to provide tractor services for farmers last year.

He urged the authorities to implement the initiative earlier this year to align with the rainy season.

“The government also promised to introduce irrigation, but this is yet to begin.

“We are appealing to the government to fulfil its promises and ensure timely support for the 2025 planting season,” he said.

However, he appreciated the government for providing some farm equipment to farmers, describing it as the first of its kind.