In a significant move to address food insecurity, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, has empowered 200 farmers and donated 10 acres of land to them for farming.
This donation was announced during a town hall meeting with Oyo State farmers, women, and youth, organized by the Nigerian Women for Agricultural Progress and Development Initiative (NWAPDI) in partnership with Ibadan North Local Government.
During his remarks at the town hall meeting, Hon. Olufade expressed his gratitude to the farmers for their dedication and urged them to continue their efforts in farming, emphasizing its importance in solving food insecurity in the country.
He particularly encouraged women in farming, noting their crucial role in ensuring food availability in Ibadan North, Oyo State, and Nigeria at large.
Hon. Olufade also announced plans to revitalize the gari processing mill at Bodija to further support agricultural development in the area.
The Chairman stressed that no nation can thrive without agricultural development and acknowledged a respected local farmer, Baba Aiki, for his ongoing commitment to agricultural progress in Ibadan North.
Mr. Akeem Olatunji, the Head of Local Government Administration in Ibadan North, called on farmers to collaborate with the Chairman to ensure food security in Oyo State.
He reminded attendees that agriculture has historically been a primary source of internal revenue before the discovery of oil and emphasized the essential role of agriculture in food provision.
He also praised the women involved in farming and thanked the Executive Governor of Oyo State for creating an enabling environment for farmers.
Mrs. S.A. Akanni, the Director of Agriculture in Ibadan North Local Government, appreciated the attendees and acknowledged the support of the Executive Chairman in hosting the event. She encouraged women farmers to continue their efforts, highlighting their value and appreciation in society.
Mrs. Omolara Svensson, the National Coordinator of NWAPDI, praised the partnership with the local government and urged continuous support for women in agriculture through empowerment and an enabling environment.
She highlighted the significant involvement of women in agriculture and its positive impact on the nation.
Hon. Olufade reinforced his commitment to food security by announcing plans to establish a food bank accessible to everyone beyond Ibadan North Local Government.
In his remarks, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle DON, the Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Seyi Makinde, encouraged everyone to engage in agriculture, noting the economic benefits of growing food at home.
He shared his personal experience as a farmer and assured his support for NWAPDI and the farmers whenever needed.
The town hall meeting was attended by notable figures, including Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle DON, Hon. Taiwo Adebola, Leader of the House, and other councilors; Hamdy Mustapha, Chief of Staff of Ibadan North Local Government; Mr. Akeem Olatunji, Head of Local Government Administration; Mr. Babatunde Olaniran, Director of Administration and General Services; Mrs. Babarimisa, Director of Finance; Mrs. S.A. Akanni, Director of Agriculture; Alhaja Najimdeen Qudrat, Director of Education and Social Services; Mrs. Lala Olufunmike, Head of Information; Farmer Enitan Onitiri, Southwest Zonal Coordinator NWAPDI; along with supervisory councilors and special assistants to the Executive Chairman.
