Oyo govt trains 1,950 farmers
By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo
The Oyo State Government has commenced a capacity-building program for 1,950 farmers across the 33 Local Government areas of the State.
The program, according to the Government was part of its effort to ensure food security and create a sustainable agricultural ecosystem that boosts food production in Nigeria.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, made this known while declaring open the training exercise in Ibadan.
Olaleye, who was represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Abosede Owoeye emphasized the Government’s investment in the state’s future through various trainings for farmers, adding that the Engr. Seyi Makinde-led administration recognize the crucial role of farmers in ensuring food security and economic prosperity.
According to him, “the training program encompasses various areas, 660 farmers will receive training on pasture establishment, management, conservation, and artificial insemination techniques, 300 farmers will learn about climate-smart agriculture, focusing on high-value crop production and effective weed management strategies, 140 young farmers will receive training on beekeeping practices,100 participants will learn about shea butter production techniques, 90 participants will receive training on locust bean processing methods, 660 youths, women, and retirees will receive specialized training on mushroom cultivation across all zones in the state.”
Olaleye therefore urged the participants to take full advantage of the training, emphasizing that the Government has engaged expert resource persons to ensure a comprehensive learning experience.
Expert at the event included scholars from the University of Ibadan, such as Prof. Olusola Olorunnisomo; Dr. Adewunmi Adesina, Mr. Tunmise Olagbaju, and Mr. Kola Ajao, Bee Specialist, among others.
