Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has disbursed N140 million in cheques to young farmers engaged in commercial agriculture under the “Bring Back the Youth in Agriculture” initiative.
In a statement on the state government’s Facebook page today, the programme, executed in collaboration with YSJ Farms Limited, targets boosting food production and youth engagement in farming across six farm clusters in the state.
Presenting the cheques at the Osuntokun Pavilion, Government House, Ado-Ekiti yesterday, Oyebanji highlighted the critical global and national food shortages witnessed this year.
He emphasised his administration’s commitment to agriculture as a tool for economic empowerment and food security.
“Our efforts are geared towards creating financial opportunities for young people through commercial agriculture. To further enhance productivity, we are working with investors to bring tractors into the state for hire, instead of purchasing them directly,” he said.
The governor also warned against sabotage within the Ministry of Agriculture, urging staff to align with the government’s vision of repositioning agriculture and improving food security in the state.
Oyebanji disclosed that the state government had injected N300 million into Ekiti’s economy in the last two days, aligning with his administration’s wealth creation and shared prosperity agenda.
He further encouraged the beneficiaries to use the funds judiciously, reinvesting in future planting seasons while hoping for favourable weather conditions.
Furthermore, the governor announced plans to renovate the old Awolowo farm settlement and develop six new farm settlements next year to address the farmers’ accommodation challenges, ensuring a more convenient working environment.
Commending President Bola Tinubu for financial support, the governor disclosed ongoing efforts to establish “Renewed Hope Farm Settlements” in all farm clusters across the state.
Moreover ,the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Ebenezer Boluade, praised the initiative, noting its potential to create 10,000 agricultural jobs and lift Ekiti residents out of poverty.
He also highlighted the state’s progress in broiler farming, with a projected N80 million revenue within four breeding cycles.
Meanwhile, the young farmers which include Johnson Owoeye from Gede and Michael Mayowa from Iyemero, expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting the positive impact on their lives and futures.
More so, YSJ Farms Limited CEO, Yemisi Joluwe, lauded the resilience and determination of Ekiti’s youth, describing them as hardworking and focused.
