NALDA boss urges traditional rulers, LG chairmen to release land for FG agric initiatives

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin

The Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), Engr. Cornelius Oluwasegun Adebayo, has called on traditional rulers and local government chairmen in Kwara State to release arable land for Federal Government agricultural initiatives.

Adebayo urged them to follow the example of Ora, a rural community in the state, which recently wrote to NALDA offering 5,000 hectares of land for agricultural projects.

Speaking at a New Year Celebration party held in Oke-Onigbin, Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State, on Tuesday, Adebayo outlined the Federal Government’s mechanization drive under President Tinubu’s leadership. He explained plans to establish farm settlements, provide mechanized tools, and rehabilitate displaced farmers.

“We are working to develop vast lands and facilitate farming for local communities. These farm settlements will include health centers, schools, and financial inclusion hubs, ensuring socio-economic growth. The displaced farmers, who are among the most experienced, will be resettled to continue farming and earn decent incomes,” Adebayo said.

He appealed to traditional rulers and communities to make land available for agricultural investments, emphasizing that “holding on to land without utilizing it benefits no one. By collaborating with the government and investors, we can uplift our communities economically.”

Prominent leaders in Kwara State, including local government officials, traditional rulers, and agricultural stakeholders, have commended the Federal Government’s initiative, describing it as transformative for addressing food security and economic development.

The Chairman of Isin Local Government, Jolayemi Olanrewaju, expressed optimism about the agricultural agenda, highlighting its potential to combat food scarcity.

He said, “The Federal Government’s plan to secure land for agricultural purposes is commendable. If care is not taken, this year may bring challenges of food scarcity. However, with this initiative, I believe we can overcome them. Some farmers in my local government have suggested exploring dry farming systems, and with Federal Government support, we can address future food scarcity issues.”

Similarly, the Chairman of Offa Local Government, Hon. Suleiman Olatunji, underscored the initiative’s benefits for youth employment and infrastructure development. He disclosed that 1,000 hectares of land had already been allocated for agricultural projects in the area.

“We thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for this initiative. It will create employment opportunities for youths, ensure mass food production, and enhance food security. Improved rural roads linking farmers to urban markets also demonstrate the Federal Government’s commitment to agriculture,” he said.

The Onigbin of Oke-Onigbin, Oba Salaudeen Tayo, commended the Federal Government’s provision of agricultural materials such as fertilizers and herbicides while urging further support.

“We have abundant land in Kwara South suitable for agriculture. The Federal Government, through its representatives, is doing well, but we urge them to do more in supporting farmers,” he said.

The event also highlighted the contributions of former Kwara State Governor and Minister, C.O. Adebayo, who initiated the annual Kwara South unity meetings. These meetings aim to foster collaboration among leaders, stakeholders, and community members for regional development.

Stakeholders praised the Federal Government’s initiative as a beacon of hope for agricultural transformation in Nigeria, urging continued support and collaboration to achieve food security and economic prosperity.