The Oyo State Government has begun training 140 youths in tractor operations as part of efforts to promote mechanised farming and youth empowerment.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, announced this on Monday at the opening of a four-day training session for participants from the Ibadan/Ibarapa zone, held at the Ido Local Government Secretariat.
Olaleye said the programme is designed to replace the aging workforce of tractor operators, strengthen the state’s tractorisation drive, and increase agricultural productivity.
According to him, participants will be trained in safe and efficient tractor operations, with safety kits provided. Outstanding trainees will undergo apprenticeship with the Tractor Owners Association and established tractor-hiring companies.
He urged the participants to take the training seriously, noting that the skills acquired would create sustainable employment opportunities, reduce unemployment, and contribute to food security.
The training is also being conducted in Oke-Ogun and Oyo-Ogbomoso zones.
Some participants, including Hammed Oladapo, Idowu Babatunde, and Muyiwa Ibikunle, commended the state government, saying the initiative would help them secure employment and pursue mechanised farming.
