In a resounding show of support for the agricultural sector, the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has reiterated his administration�s unwavering commitment to empowering farmers and driving food production across the state. The governor emphasized that agriculture remains a cornerstone of his government�s economic development strategy, with deliberate efforts being made to boost productivity, ensure food security, and uplift rural livelihoods.
Speaking through the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Bolu Owotomo, Governor Abiodun made these remarks during the official flag-off of the harvest of 80 hectares of cassava farmland in Ifonyintedo, located in the Ipokia Local Government Area. The event marks a significant milestone under the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP), a comprehensive initiative designed to strengthen the state�s agricultural value chain and enhance farmers� incomes.
According to a statement released on Sunday by Simbo Olayinka, the Project Communications Officer, the cassava farming initiative is one of several agricultural interventions under OGSTEP, supported by both state and international development partners. The programme is focused on promoting inclusive agricultural growth, reducing poverty, and building a sustainable food system in the state.
Governor Abiodun highlighted the integrated support package provided to the 80 participating farmers, all of whom benefitted from substantial government subsidies aimed at reducing production costs and increasing profitability. Specifically, the farmers received a 65% subsidy on land clearing services, alongside 50% discounts on essential inputs such as cassava stems, herbicides, pesticides, and fertilisers.
�These farmers are not left to fend for themselves,� the governor said. �We have provided them with the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive. Each farmer is projected to earn a minimum of N2.4 million from this harvest. This is not just farming�it is wealth creation, economic empowerment, and a step towards ensuring food security for our people.�
Abiodun also addressed a long-standing challenge faced by Nigerian farmers�limited access to reliable markets. He noted that to mitigate the risk of post-harvest losses, the state government proactively linked all 80 cassava farmers to verified off-takers who have committed to purchasing the produce immediately after harvest.
�This administration recognises that without guaranteed markets, all the hard work put into farming can go to waste. That�s why we�ve facilitated seamless connections between farmers and buyers,� the governor stated. �With this structure in place, our farmers are not just planting�they are harvesting with confidence.�
He urged more farmers across the state to participate in future agricultural programmes, emphasizing that transforming Ogun State�s agricultural landscape is a collective effort that requires the involvement of all stakeholders�from government and private sector players to farmers and community leaders.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Abiodun Yusuph, one of the participating farmers, expressed deep gratitude to the state government for the life-changing support provided through the initiative. He acknowledged that the intervention significantly eased the burden on smallholder farmers, particularly in the area of land preparation and input acquisition.
�For the first and second ploughing, and other land preparation activities, the project covered 65% of the costs. This greatly reduced the financial pressure we usually face,� Yusuph said. �In addition, the government subsidised half the cost of fertilisers and other inputs, which made it easier for us to cultivate and manage our farms effectively. We are truly grateful.�
Also present at the event was Dr. Ope Adejuwon, a representative of the agricultural sector�s project management team, who reinforced the integrity and focus of the empowerment scheme. He emphasized that the programme is strictly designed for individuals who are actively involved in farming.
�This initiative is not for speculative beneficiaries,� Dr. Adejuwon said. �Only genuine, practicing farmers who are committed to agricultural development and productivity are being empowered through this programme. Our goal is to drive real impact by supporting those who are in the fields, working the land, and feeding the nation.�
The harvest ceremony in Ifonyintedo served as a tangible testament to what can be achieved when public policy, strategic planning, and community engagement come together. With the successful cultivation and harvest of 80 hectares of cassava farmland, the Ogun State Government is reinforcing its leadership in agricultural innovation and setting a new benchmark for farmer-focused governance in Nigeria.
As the country continues to grapple with food inflation and supply chain challenges, initiatives like this underline the vital role that state-level action can play in transforming Nigeria�s agricultural future.
