Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Monday flagged off the first phase of the distribution of fertilizers to different categories of farmers with a promise to aggressively tackle food scarcity in the state.
About 7,000 out of 12,000 farmers earmaked for the scheme, will benefit from the first phase, im which a total of 24,000 fertilizers will be distributed.
Speaking at an event held at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Prince Abiodun acknowledged the growing disparity between food supply and global food production, which has led to scarcity.
He said: “It is widely known that the global population is growing exponentially while the overall food production is falling and struggling to keep pace. We will be more aggressive in tackling food inflation.
“The initiative symbolizes more than just the distribution of fertilizer. It represents our collective resolve to support the agriculture sector and ensure that farmers have the resources they need to cultivate their land effectively and efficiently.
“The provision of the right type and adequate amount of fertilizer is crucial to boost crop yields, enhance quality, and ultimately secure food supply for our state and the nation.”
The distribution, the governor noted, marks another significant milestone in the ongoing commitment to ensuring food security and empowering farmers, emphasizing that agriculture remains the backbone of the nation’s economy, creating and providing sustenance and reliable job opportunities for millions of Nigerians.
He noted the challenges farmers are facing in terms of unstable market prices and climate change, adding that with the right support and incentives, farmers could drive and transform the nation’s agricultural sector.
He added: “12,000 farmers will benefit from this program. In the first phase, at least 7,000 farmers are to benefit.
