By Fatima Muraina

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The Ondo State Government has reiterated its commitment to tackling insecurity in farmlands and improve market accessibility to enhance agricultural productivity.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Olayato Aribo, made this declaration  while opening a Tomato, Pepper, and Onion training session at the Fadama Hall.

He emphasized that agriculture in the state is progressing as planned following the establishment of a food committee aimed at fostering agricultural growth.

Represented by Chairman of the Ondo State Agricultural Commodities Association (OSACA), High Chief Patrick Adejo, the Commissioner stated that the committee would manage the surplus of tomatoes, peppers, and onions for the benefit of farmers and the public.

He highlighted insecurity and limited market access as major challenges confronting farmers of these crops, which have been identified for resolution.

Aribo urged all agricultural associations to identify and discuss their challenges with the government to find lasting solutions.

He advised farmers to unite in overcoming these challenges and support one another in finding solutions.

Addressing the participants, Mr. Adeogun Olufemi from L-PRES encouraged farmers to engage in both crop and livestock farming, stressing that livestock farming complements crop cultivation.

He urged them to participate in the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project in the state.

Mrs. Tayo Ogundare, Administrative Secretary of the Ondo State Agribusiness Empowerment Center (OSAEC), represented by Mr. Abiodun Olabomi, mentioned that the agency supports farmers’ groups rather than individuals.

Mr. Wale Mafolabomi, representing the Ondo State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (OSOPADEC), expressed appreciation to Agbeladun Empowerments for organizing the training across the state’s three senatorial districts.

He described the training as enlightening towards achieving food security, emphasizing that investing in farming is a viable business.

He revealed that his commission partnered with Agbeladun to promote farming in riverine areas and among teachers interested in agriculture.

In his welcome speech, Mr. Franklin Fadoju, the State Coordinator of Agbeladun Agricultural Empowerment, stated that the NGO aims to complement the State Government’s efforts in agricultural development.

He anticipated that the training would significantly benefit rural communities, particularly in reducing the high cost of crops and ensuring food security.

Three resource persons, Mr. Taiwo Ilawole, Mr. Habeeb Abdulquadri, and Mr. Oludare Idowu, presented papers on tomatoes, peppers, and onions, respectively.

Highlights of the training included the presentation of certificates of participation and the distribution of tomato seedlings to participants.