…targets youths, women in mechanised farming, agro-allied ventures

• Akotogbo, Iyansan communities selected for pilot scheme

By Adedotun Ajayi

Ondo State farmers are upbeat following the launch of a $200m mega farm project aimed at revolutionising agriculture and boosting food production in the state.

As part of the initiative, the government has secured 10,000 hectares of land in Akotogbo and Iyansan, both in the Southern Senatorial District, to enhance agribusiness, create employment, and empower women and youths through mechanised farming and agro-allied ventures.

Speaking in Akure on Friday, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Agriculture and Agribusiness, Wemimo Akinsola, said the project, in collaboration with the Commonwealth Women’s Network, would focus on mechanised farming, processing, packaging, and marketing of agricultural produce.

He noted that the land would be transformed into a major agricultural hub, with access to essential water sources for irrigation.

He added that the proximity to the proposed seaport and the existing airport in the state capital would facilitate agricultural exports, positioning Ondo as a key player in the sector.

Akinsola stated that the $200m project would be executed under the Ondo State Agribusiness Empowerment Centre (OSAEC) through its Land Banking Scheme, aimed at supporting both smallholder farmers and large-scale investors.

Cabinet Director of the Commonwealth Women’s Network, Niba Louis, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to the project, pledging financial support, training, and technical expertise.

He disclosed that over 3,000 farmers would be engaged in the initiative, stressing that the focus is to enhance their productivity rather than displace them.

Reacting to the development, a local farmer, Shola Adeniyan, expressed optimism about the project, dismissing claims of land scarcity in Ese Odo.

He urged farmers to seize the opportunity, describing it as a game-changer for the state’s agricultural sector.

With this initiative, the Ondo State Government is laying the foundation for a transformation in agribusiness, aimed at enhancing food security, creating jobs, and driving economic growth.