The Ogun State government, in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), on Friday distributed agricultural input to 2,740 cassava farmers.

The distribution was carried out under the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) programme of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, aimed at boosting food security and farmers’ incomes.

Speaking at the ceremony in Abeokuta, Bolu Owotomo, the commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, described the intervention as a strategic investment in the state’s agricultural future.

Mr Owotomo said that the initiative was aimed at strengthening food security, improving farmers’ incomes and promoting climate-smart agriculture across the state.

“This initiative demonstrates Governor Dapo Abiodun’s commitment to empower farmers, increase food production and drive sustainable economic growth.

“Agriculture remains central to the administration’s ‘Building Our Future Together’ agenda, with investments targeting sustainable agricultural development,” he said.

The commissioner disclosed that beyond input distribution, the SAPZ programme had delivered critical infrastructure to support agribusinesses and stimulate rural development.

He added that the programme would strengthen agricultural value chains, promote agro-industrial development and enhance inclusive economic growth.

The commissioner, however, appealed to the farmers to utilise the input judiciously to boost food production and ensure food security in the state.

One of the beneficiaries, Oluwaseun John, commended the federal government, the Ogun State government, IFAD, and SAPZ for the intervention.

“The inputs will improve our farming activities, increase yields and enhance our livelihoods,” he said.

Another beneficiary, Oluwafunmilayo Eweje, described the intervention as timely and impactful.

“This support will encourage us to produce more cassava and contribute to food security in the state,” Ms Eweje said.

 (NAN)