The Ondo State Government on Wednesday appealed to youths in the state to embrace its poultry empowerment initiative, describing the programme as genuine and not a scam.
The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Agriculture and Agribusiness to Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Mr Rotimi Akinsola, made the appeal during the graduation of the first batch of participants in the programme, held in Isuada, Owo Local Government Area.
The programme, tagged “Adiye Irorun,” is designed to empower unemployed youths across the state through practical poultry training.
Akinsola said the initiative targets 75 unemployed youths statewide, adding that participants undergo a six-week paid training in poultry production.
“The essence of this programme is for you to learn, take responsibility and start your own business.
“This is the first set, and we want to demonstrate clearly that this initiative is real, not a scam, and that participants are paid for their services.
“You can now tell others that Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa is truly putting food on the tables of youths and taking them off the streets,” he said.
The SSA added that beneficiaries from the southern and central zones of the state would complete their training and graduate in the coming weeks.
According to him, the programme is structured to ensure participants earn income during training, enabling them to become financially empowered and ready to establish their own poultry businesses after graduation.
“The goal is to make you poultry farmers. You learn the rudiments of the business and are rewarded financially so you can start on your own after the programme,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr Samuel Ajewole described the initiative as impactful, saying it would uplift youths and create meaningful opportunities.
Ajewole said the programme demonstrated the governor’s commitment to youth development and food security in the state.
He added that the knowledge, skills and exposure gained during the training had strengthened his resolve to contribute positively to agricultural development and youth engagement.
Ajewole disclosed that he would receive N500,000 upon completion of the six-week training.
It was reported that participants were presented with certificates to mark the successful completion of the programme.
