The Ondo State Government, through the Livestock Productivity Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project, has distributed no fewer than 70 motorcycles to strengthen livestock extension services and support lead farmers in the state.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa flagged off the distribution on Thursday in Akure. He said the initiative was aimed at enhancing service delivery, improving food security, and boosting agricultural productivity.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Segun Omojuwa, the governor described agriculture as the backbone of the state’s economy.
He noted that the state’s economic growth depends heavily on effective agricultural extension services, which serve as a vital link between government policies and grassroots farmers.
Aiyedatiwa explained that mobility challenges had long hindered extension officers from reaching farmers in remote areas. He said the motorcycles would help bridge this gap and improve livestock production.
“These motorcycles will enable officers to reach more communities, respond quickly to field challenges, and deliver timely technical guidance on modern farming practices and livestock management,” he said.
“This initiative aligns with our administration’s vision to transform farmers from subsistence to commercial agriculture while encouraging greater youth participation in the sector.”
The governor commended the L-PRES Project and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry for their roles in implementing the programme and strengthening agricultural value chains.
He, however, warned beneficiaries against misusing the motorcycles, stressing that they were strictly for official duties and not for commercial purposes.
Aiyedatiwa urged the extension officers to use the equipment responsibly, noting that the success of the programme depended largely on their dedication.
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He pledged continued government investment in agricultural development, improved access to inputs, and enhanced extension services across the state.
Earlier, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Mr Leye Akinola, described the initiative as a significant milestone under the L-PRES Project aimed at improving livestock production and farmers’ resilience.
Akinola applauded Governor Aiyedatiwa for creating an enabling environment for development-driven programmes like L-PRES to thrive. He added that the project implementation unit would conduct regular monitoring to ensure proper use and maintenance of the motorcycles.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Mrs Foluke Tunde-Daramola, appreciated the governor and the L-PRES team for facilitating the distribution. She urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the motorcycles.
Mr Adelana Adebusoye, a livestock extension agent who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries, commended the state government, saying the gesture would greatly enhance their service delivery.
Mr Olufemi Adeogun, the L-PRES State Project Coordinator, also thanked the governor for his support in implementing the programme in the state.
