Food Security: Abiodun begins fertilizer distribution to state farmers

12,000 local farmers to benefit from the scheme

August 13, 2024.

By Samuel Ogunsona

In bid to boost agricultural productivity and ensure food security in South-West, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has flagged off the first phase of his administration’s distribution of fertilisers to different categories of farmers in the state.

The initiative aims to give agricultural support to local farmers and also to promote self-sufficiency in food production.

About 7,000 out of 12,000 farmers enlisted for the scheme will benefit from the first phase.

Speaking at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Mr Abiodun acknowledged the difficulties in food production in recent years, citing that the initiative is part of the state effort to support local farmers and increase food production.

“It is widely known that the global population is growing exponentially while the overall food production is falling and struggling to keep pace. We will be more aggressive in tackling food inflation.

“The initiative symbolises more than just the distribution of fertiliser. It represents our collective resolve to support the agriculture sector and ensure that farmers have the resources they need to cultivate their land effectively and efficiently.

“The provision of the right type and adequate amount of fertiliser is crucial to boosting crop yields, enhancing quality, and ultimately securing food supply for our state and the nation,” he said.

The distribution, the governor noted, marked another significant milestone in the ongoing commitment to ensuring food security and empowering farmers.

Emphasizing on the struggles of farmers, he highlighted some twin challenges of volatile market prices affecting their income and also climate change, impacting crop yield.

“12,000 farmers will benefit from this programme. In the first phase, at least 7,000 farmers are to benefit. This distribution spans various categories of farmers, including the Nigeria Cassava Association, Rice Farmers Association, Maize Association of Nigeria, Farmer Allottees, Agro-services Crop Farmers, the Agricultural Development Programme, the Farmer Settlement and Estate Farmers, Tree Crops Farmers, and farmers in all 20 local government areas.

“It is gratifying to note that the ongoing cooperation of states and the federal government on this transformation agenda, particularly in agriculture, will create several opportunities. It will serve as a viable business venture, and we should all come together to ensure its success,” the Governor noted.