In an effort to address the escalating cost of food and promote food security, Governor Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa of Ondo State has launched a statewide initiative to distribute maize and other essential agricultural commodities. This initiative, which began on Monday in Akure, aims to provide critical support to farmers engaged in poultry, piggery, and fishery across the state’s 18 local government areas.
Speaking at the event, Governor Ayedatiwa underscored the urgency of tackling the nation’s food security challenges. He revealed that about 40 trailers of grains supplied by the federal government had been allocated for this purpose, marking the first step in a series of interventions aimed at achieving zero tolerance for food insecurity in Ondo State.
“The removal of petrol subsidies has undeniably worsened the food security crisis, driving inflation and making life more difficult for citizens,” the governor explained. “As a responsible government, we must curb this alarming trend, ensuring that food is not only available but also affordable for all our people.”
To address these challenges, the state has established a Committee on Agriculture and Food Security tasked with implementing immediate and impactful measures. Governor Ayedatiwa also announced plans to enhance infrastructure, improve market access, and empower smallholder farmers, particularly women and youth, as part of the state’s long-term agricultural strategy.
Ondo State, already a significant contributor to Nigeria’s agricultural sector, particularly in tomato production, is poised to strengthen its position as an agricultural hub. The governor shared plans for future distributions of additional food commodities, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to ensuring food availability and affordability.
Rotimi Wemimo Akinsola, Chairman of the Committee on Agriculture and Food Security, praised the governor for his dedication to the welfare of the people. He encouraged farmers to maximize the use of the distributed resources to help reduce food prices and foster agricultural growth in the state.
As a testament to his efforts, Governor Ayedatiwa was honored with an award by the Ondo State Agricultural Commodities Association (OSACA) for his contributions to advancing agriculture and addressing food insecurity.
This maize distribution initiative not only provides immediate relief to farmers but also sets the stage for sustainable agricultural practices. By equipping farmers with essential inputs and prioritizing capacity-building programs, the state government aims to increase food production and foster economic growth.
Through this proactive approach, the Ondo State government demonstrates a long-term vision for addressing food insecurity while responding to immediate challenges. Governor Ayedatiwa’s leadership exemplifies a commitment to improving the quality of life for residents, reinforcing Ondo State’s role as a key player in Nigeria’s agricultural development.
