The Ondo State Government has begun a two-day training programme for yam farmers on yam sett multiplication and tuber production as part of efforts to enhance food security and promote youth engagement in agriculture.
Declaring the training open on Thursday in Akure, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Agribusiness, Mr Rotimi Akinsola, said similar initiatives would be extended to other farmers across the state.
Akinsola noted that the programme was one of the key strategies put in place to secure the state’s food supply and increase agricultural productivity.
He appreciated the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) for introducing innovative farming techniques that had helped farmers increase yields and improve food availability.
“There will be more programmes designed to help our farmers work smart and earn better profits from their investments.
“I assure you that Mr Governor is fully committed to achieving food security in Ondo state,” he said.
Akinsola also urged farmers to participate in the ongoing registration at the state’s Agribusiness and Empowerment Center (OSAEC) to benefit from forthcoming government initiatives.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Forestry Services, Mr Segun Odusanya, underscored the critical role of farmers in society.
He said this recognition motivated the Lucky Aiyedatiwa-led administration to initiate targeted programmes aimed at boosting food security.
Also speaking, the Administrative Secretary of OSAEC, Mr Femi Iwajomo, encouraged participants to take full advantage of the training, which he said would significantly improve yam production in the state.
The representative of IITA, Dr Gbenga Pelemo, commended the Ondo State Government for prioritising food production.
He reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to supporting farmers with improved inputs and continued training across the country.
“We have several partners ready to support food production initiatives.
“We are here in Ondo state to see how the results of our trainings and inputs can contribute to enhanced food production,” Pelemo said.
NAN
