Mohammed Shosanya
The Oyo State Government,through the ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development on Sunday, has called on residents to embrace Backyard Farming to boost food production in the state.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, stated this at a special service programme to celebrate, World Food Day with the theme ” Right to Foods for Better life, and a Better Future” held at St. Peter’s Cathedral.
He explained that a better future can only be visible if everybody embraces farming, adding that starting with backyard farming, we can ensure food security and mitigate the impact of climate change on our food systems.
He maintained that oyo state government under the leadership of Engr Makinde will continue to support farmers and encourage individuals to contribute to food security.
He emphasized that collective action is necessary to address hunger, malnutrition, and poverty.
Speaking on various ways in which the government had provided support to farmers, Olaleye explained that about
5,160 acres of farm land have been ploughed under 50% Tractorisation subsidy.
He added that farmers have received inputs in various capacity from Oyo state government, such as free distribution of maize to poultry farmers, arable farmers and many more.
He hinted that going by the support received by the farmers in the state coupled with this year’s World Food Day, there is a need for us as government and farmers to give thanks to God and offer prayers to farmers, government, most especially our dear nation.
Unfolding the programme slated for this year World Food Day, the Commissioner revealed that the long week programme started with Jumat service on Friday 11th October, while today being Day 2 Special church Service, Monday 13th October, there will be Agbeloba fitness walk which all farmers will participate from the state secretariat to Oje market back to Secretariat, while Tuesday 15th, inauguration of Oyo State Seed Coordinating Committee- OYSSCC at House of Chiefs, Secretariat.
He added that on 16th October there will be a grand finale in which a paper presentation and official opening of exhibition of agricultural products by the Governor.
He urged farmers across the state to participate actively in the global event.
