Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has taken a significant step to support local farmers by distributing 18,000 bags of fertilizer across the state. This move aims to boost agricultural production and address rising food costs in Nigeria.
The distribution, which took place in Akure, the state capital, includes various types of fertilizers:
5,520 bags of NPK 20-10-10
4,140 bags of NPK 27-13-13
4,140 bags of NPK 15-15-15
4,200 bags of Urea fertilizer
Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader effort to combat hunger and food insecurity in Ondo State. He acknowledged several factors contributing to food scarcity and high prices, including insecurity, lack of financing, poor road networks, climate change, and urbanization.
To address these challenges, the state government has implemented several measures:
1. Approval of N1 billion for subsidized agricultural inputs and tractor hiring
2. Another N1 billion for subsidized food commodities
3. Creation of a committee on agriculture and food security
4. Distribution of maize to livestock farmers to reduce animal feed costs
5. Distribution of food items including rice, maize, and garri
6. Provision of tricycles, tillers, and canoes to support farmers
The governor stressed that these interventions, jointly financed by the federal and state governments, aim to alleviate hunger and provide relief to citizens. He also warned against any politicization or unfair distribution of the fertilizers, insisting they must be fairly allocated across all 18 local government areas and are not for sale.
Rotimi Wemimo, the Senior Special Assistant on Agriculture and Agribusiness, assured that thorough investigations would be conducted to ensure the fertilizers reach their intended beneficiaries and are used effectively.
Local farming associations have expressed appreciation for the government’s support. Ayodele Olamide, Chairman of the Rice Farmers Association, and Oloruntoba Olufemi, Chairman of the Cassava Growers Association, both highlighted the timeliness and potential impact of this fertilizer distribution on their farming operations.
This initiative reflects a growing focus on agricultural development in Nigeria as a means to address food security concerns and stimulate economic growth. By providing essential resources like fertilizers to farmers, Ondo State aims to increase crop yields, reduce food prices, and improve livelihoods in rural areas.
The success of this program will likely depend on effective distribution, proper use of the fertilizers by farmers, and continued support from both state and federal governments. If successful, it could serve as a model for other states facing similar agricultural challenges.
As Nigeria grapples with economic pressures and food security issues, initiatives like this fertilizer distribution program demonstrate the importance of supporting local agriculture. By investing in farmers and providing them with necessary resources, states like Ondo are taking proactive steps to ensure food sufficiency and economic stability for their citizens.
