GOV AIYEDATIWA DISTRIBUTES 1200 TONNES OF PALLIATIVE GRAINS TO LIVESTOCK FARMERS IN ONDO STATE
In a concerted effort to bolster food security and mitigate rising food prices, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has initiated the distribution of maize palliatives to livestock farmers across the state. The move, which saw the distribution of 40 trailers of grains supplied by the Federal Government, aims to alleviate the challenges faced by poultry, piggery, and fishery farmers amidst prevailing economic conditions.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, speaking at the event held in Akure, emphasized the critical need to address escalating food prices and ensure food availability and affordability for all citizens. He underscored the establishment of the committee on Agriculture and Food Security, tasked with implementing urgent measures to tackle food insecurity and enhance agricultural productivity in the state.
“The effects of painful but necessary subsidy removal on petrol had compounded the food security situation in Ondo State and indeed Nigeria. Rising inflation on food items and others have made life somewhat unbearable to the people,” remarked Governor Aiyedatiwa, reaffirming the government’s commitment to curbing the trend.
Acknowledging the pivotal role of agriculture in the state’s economy, Governor Aiyedatiwa lauded Ondo State’s contribution to supplying 75 percent of tomatoes to markets in Lagos State. He pledged continued support for smallholder farmers, particularly women and youths, through infrastructure development, capacity building, and access to credit facilities.
The event witnessed the distribution of maize to poultry, fish, and piggery farmers, with plans for further distribution of various food commodities in the future. Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for approving the distribution of grains and other essential commodities nationwide.
In his address, Mr. Rotimi Wemimo Akinsola, Chairman of the Committee on Agriculture and Food Security, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa’s proactive approach in addressing agricultural challenges and urged farmers to utilize the distributed commodities effectively to help stabilize food prices.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of an award to Governor Aiyedatiwa by the Ondo State Agricultural Commodities Association (OSACA), recognizing his unwavering commitment to agricultural development in the state.
The distribution of palliative grains underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring food security and fostering sustainable agricultural practices in Ondo State.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State. April 8, 2024.
