The Chairman of Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti, Bayo Omojola, has assured young farmers of the council’s commitment to support them with mechanised equipment to boost agricultural development.

Mr Omojola made the promise in an interview in Ikole-Ekiti on Sunday.

He explained that the aim was to empower youth farmers through mechanised farming to create employment and boost food production.

The chairman said the council would explore modern farming equipment and improved agricultural practices to make farming more productive and attractive to young people.

According to him, this will drive investment in the agricultural sector, create opportunities for youths, and improve economic growth for families.

He said the initiative would also encourage more youths to embrace agriculture as a viable means of livelihood while reducing dependence on white-collar jobs.

He said the plan would boost food security and contribute to the local government’s economic development.

The local government boss said the agricultural sector is a key driver of economic diversification and growth.

Mr Omojola said the initiative would complement existing agricultural interventions in the local government, including distributing improved cocoa seedlings to farmers.

He said the council would continue to identify areas where youths could be supported to participate actively in agricultural production.

The local government chairman urged youths in Ikole to see agribusiness as an opportunity, adding that the sector could provide jobs across the agricultural value chain.

Mr Omojola called on relevant stakeholders, private investors, and development partners to support efforts to promote mechanised farming and youth participation in agriculture.

In August, Mr Omojola distributed improved cocoa seedlings to more than 70 farmers in the local government and encouraged youths to take advantage of opportunities in agriculture. 

(NAN)