By Fatima Muraina

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The Ondo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with agricultural stakeholders to establish a mechanised farming system aimed at enhancing food production and ensuring food security.

This initiative aligns with the vision of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration to create employment opportunities for young people while positioning the state as an agricultural hub.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Agriculture and Agribusiness, Mr Wemimo Akinsola, disclosed this while receiving the management team of ZNT AgriHub at his office in Alagbaka, Akure.

Akinsola explained that the project is designed to develop an agricultural framework for cultivating over 2,000 hectares in each senatorial district. He added that the initiative is in line with the governor’s executive order to bring agricultural enterprises closer to the people.

“This initiative marks a significant stride in actualising the state government’s goal of agricultural sustainability and economic development.”

“The collaboration with ZNT AgriHub, OSACA, and other relevant stakeholders is expected to play a significant role in transforming the state into a food-secure region while empowering farmers with advanced skills and resources,” he stated.

He further revealed that the government has directed communities to provide land for the project, assuring that landowners would be adequately compensated. He also called for the cooperation of residents to ensure the programme’s success.

The Chief Executive Officer of ZNT AgriHub, Zainab Suleiman, who led the team, reiterated the company’s commitment to contributing to the state’s agricultural transformation through technical expertise, research, and innovation.

She highlighted the company’s capacity to support local farmers in adopting mechanised farming techniques, which she described as crucial for increasing productivity and ensuring a sustainable food supply in the state.

According to her, the company works closely with farmers to guarantee high returns on investment in agriculture by leveraging tested models and modern technology.

She emphasised that the partnership would address challenges faced by farmers while enhancing their technical expertise through training programmes.

The Chairman of the Ondo State Agricultural Commodity Association (OSACA), Chief Adejo Abiodun, welcomed the initiative, stating that the projects would not only empower farmers across the state but also significantly improve food production.