The Ogun State Government has urged residents to venture into backyard farming to enhance the state’s food security, amidst the ongoing food crisis in the country.
Honorable Bolu Owotomo, the State Commissioner for Agriculture, made this announcement during an interview with Saving Point Media.
The government pledged its support to residents interested in backyard farming by providing necessary inputs, including seedlings.
Commissioner Owotomo emphasized that backyard farming would reduce residents’ reliance on expensive food from the open market.
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Additionally, the Commissioner disclosed plans for the Ministry of Agriculture to collaborate with the Ministry of Education to encourage schools with available land to engage in farming, promising necessary support for such initiatives.
Furthermore, efforts are underway to work with directors of agriculture services in the state’s local governments to establish farms for the production of cash and food crops.
Regarding the Asero rice mill established by the previous administration, which ceased production in 2018, Owotomo explained that Governor Abiodun opted for a public-private partnership with Okun Rice to reactivate the mill, which has recently resumed the production of Okun Rice.
Insert: Owotomo explained that Governor Abiodun opted for a public-private partnership with Okun Rice
Furthermore, the Commissioner revealed plans to encourage rice cultivation in the state to reduce dependence on paddy importation from other states for milling.
He designated the Eggua axis of Ogun West as the state’s rice hub and mentioned the allocation of 50 hectares of land to a conglomerate for demonstration farming in the area.
In addressing concerns about insecurity, particularly kidnapping, which has discouraged farming activities across the state, the Commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to boosting food production despite the challenges.
Insert: Commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to boosting food production despite the challenges
In summary, the Ogun State Ministry of Agriculture is actively promoting backyard farming, supporting farming initiatives in schools, establishing farms in collaboration with local governments, reactivating the Asero rice mill, encouraging rice cultivation, and addressing security challenges to enhance food production in the state.
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