Ogun State Government Pledges Support for Fish and Cocoa Farmers
Ijebu-Ife, Ogun State – The Ogun State Government has renewed its commitment to supporting the agricultural sector, following a recent visit by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Bolu Owootomo, to Mojalake Fish Farm Settlement in Ijebu-Ife.
The visit, facilitated by Hon. Waliu Owode, the House of Assembly member representing Ijebu East and Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, included key officials such as the Director of Produce, Deputy Director of Produce, and the Head of the Technical Team.
During the visit, Hon. Owootomo expressed his appreciation for the fish farmers’ efforts and promised to extend additional interventions to enhance their productivity and profitability. The initiative is part of the state government’s broader effort to strengthen food security and economic growth through sustainable agriculture.
Later in the day, the Commissioner and his team attended a stakeholders’ meeting at Atakobo with members of the Cocoa Association of Nigeria, Agbegbemi Cooperative, and other local farmers. The meeting provided a platform to discuss the challenges faced by cocoa farmers in the state. Among the key issues raised was the need for the creation of a cocoa reserve, which would provide farmers with a more stable market and better pricing for their produce.
Hon. Owootomo assured the farmers that their concerns would be addressed, emphasizing the government’s dedication to promoting cocoa production as a major cash crop in the state. He also highlighted ongoing plans to improve infrastructure and resources for farmers, ensuring the growth of agriculture as a pillar of Ogun State’s economy.
Hon. Owode Waliu, popularly known as Biggie Oloogun Ebi, commended the commissioner for his proactive engagement and pledged continued collaboration between the legislature and the executive to address farmers’ needs effectively.
The events underline the state government’s resolve to empower local farmers and enhance agricultural output, positioning Ogun State as a leader in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
