Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has given out N140 million to youths involved in commercial agriculture as part of the state government’s “Bring Back The Youth in Agriculture” programme, conducted in partnership with YSJ Farms Limited.
Speaking during the cheque presentation at the Osuntokun Pavilion, Government House, Ado-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji highlighted the ongoing food shortages experienced nationwide and globally, emphasising his administration’s commitment to fostering youth interest in farming and driving large-scale food production.
“If we are going to develop agriculture and create wealth, we have to be extremely deliberate about our procurement process,” he remarked.
“For those that are collecting money today, I say congratulations and I am happy because you have seen the challenges and you are here today to eat the fruits of your labour, I know that what we passed through this year is not what we will pass through next year,” he further added.
The Governor then disclosed plans to collaborate with investors to provide tractors for hire, noting that the strategy is not to procure the machinery but to create an enabling environment for investors to lease equipment to farmers. He also revealed that N300 million was injected into the state’s economy over the last 48 hours as part of efforts to create wealth and enhance shared prosperity.
Addressing challenges in the agricultural sector, Oyebanji cautioned some officials within the Ministry of Agriculture against hindering progress, urging them to support the state’s food security agenda. He promised to tackle issues such as inadequate farmer accommodation by renovating the old Awolowo farm settlement and establishing at least six new farm settlements in the 2025 budget.
The Governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the state’s agricultural initiatives, revealing that efforts are underway to establish Renewed Hope Farm Settlements in all six farm clusters.
He also highlighted compensation payments of N160 million to farmers in Oke Ako, whose lands were taken over earlier this year for agricultural projects now yielding harvests.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluade, praised the Governor’s initiatives, noting their potential to lift Ekiti from poverty and create jobs for 10,000 youths. Boluade also highlighted the state’s projected earnings of N80 million from the broiler farm within four breeding cycles, urging young farmers to approach agriculture with patience and dedication.
YSJ Farms Chief Executive, Mrs Yemisi Joluwe, also lauded the resilience and commitment of Ekiti youths, describing their efforts as a testament to the industrious spirit of the state’s young population.
Dignitaries present at the event included the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro; Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi; members of the State Executive Council; members of the State House of Assembly; the Chairman of the Council of Traditional Rulers, and Olojudo of Ido Ekiti, Oba Ayorinde Faboro.
Ozioma Samuel-Ugwuezi
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