Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo state on Friday officially launched the distribution of fertilizers to farmers across the state as part of his administration’s commitment to enhancing food security and support the agriculture sector.
The event, held at the Agric Warehouse in Akure, saw a large turnout of farmers and stakeholders in agriculture and food security.
The Governor kick-started the distribution of 5,520 bags of NPK 20-10-10, 4,140 bags of NPK 27-13-13, 4,140 bags of NPK 15-15-15, and 4,200 bags of Urea fertilizers to all 18 local government areas in the state.
During the ceremony, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for facilitating the fertilizer supply through the Central Bank of Nigeria, describing it as a vital step towards enhancing food production.
“Our administration is committed to ensuring that our palliatives reach the intended beneficiaries. We will not disappoint the people of Ondo State,” Governor Aiyedatiwa stated. He also emphasized the importance of fair and transparent distribution, warning that the fertilizers are not for sale and must not be politicized.
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“Food insecurity is a serious issue that demands our immediate attention. This can only be achieved through comprehensive interventions that enhance food production at every level,” the Governor added.
He identified various challenges contributing to food scarcity, including insecurity, lack of financing, poor road networks, climate change, urbanization, and limited access to farmland. To address these, the Governor announced new measures, including a N1 billion fund for subsidized agricultural inputs and tractor hiring, and another N1 billion for subsidized food commodities.
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In his welcome address, Mr. Rotimi Wemimo, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Agriculture and Agribusiness, and Chairman of the Committee on Agriculture and Food Security, promised effective and transparent distribution of the fertilizers.