The Osun State director of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Sunday Atoyebi, says the federal government (FG) has consistently trained farmers in modern agriculture to boost food production.

Mr Atoyebi, an engineer, disclosed this in Osogbo on Monday in an interview with journalists on the government’s efforts to eradicate hunger in Osun and Nigeria in general.

He said marketing boards had also been set up to assist in the buying and selling farmers’ farm produce.

“We have sent out extension agents to train farmers in modern agriculture (mechanisation) because we believe farming has evolved and that farming with the same method and bringing the same result will not help the present situation.

“In addition, the FG has also established marketing boards to assist farmers in selling their produce.

“Government is buying farm produce from serious farmers who are into production and storing in their grain reserves to supply when there is need by the people,” he said

He said the federal government is also distributing farming equipment to farmers through the different farmers’ associations and state government at no cost and, in some cases, at subsidised rates.

“The FG has also given organic and inorganic fertilisers to farmers in the state at no cost, and some at a token,” he said.

Mr Atoyebi said the government started a dry season planting programme in 15 northern states with wheat planting through irrigation towards the end of 2023.

According to him, due to its success, the programme has been extended to all the states in the federation, with more crops like rice, maise, and cassava added. 

(NAN)