The Ogun State government is set to create 3 major farmers’ markets in parts of the state to enhance food distribution and provide a sustainable platform for farmers to sell their produce.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Bolu Owootomo, stated this during a chat with newsmen at his office at Oke Mosan, Abeokuta.
The Commissioner said that establishing farmers’ markets at Ijebu Ode, Lusada would also enhance people’s access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food.
He announced plans for mass distribution of tractors and harvesters to farmers for the increase in productivity and efficiency, adding that over 5-billion-naira worth of inputs had been distributed to farmers across the three senatorial districts of the state.
Mr Owootomo explained that the interventions of Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration, including zero percent interest loan facility for farmers and capacity building, were part of efforts to ensure an all-around farming system in line with the policy thrust of President Bola Tinubu towards attaining food sufficiency and security.
On the alleged deduction of personal funds from the accounts of subscribers to the Anchor Borrowers Programme, Mr Owootomo said efforts were ongoing to resolve the issue, with the assurance that subscribers would be refunded upon the completion of investigations.
The commissioner solicited continued support of relevant stakeholders, especially the media, in the efforts to making Ogun State the food basket of the nation.
Radio Nigeria/Deborah Ige
