By Olamide Akinwumi
The Ekiti State Government has approved the procurement of tractors and other essential farm machinery to the tune of ₦229 million as part of its ongoing efforts to support local farmers and enhance agricultural productivity in the state. This move is aligned with Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s broader strategy to empower farmers through targeted interventions aimed at boosting production along the agricultural value chain.
This development was disclosed by the State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, following the State Executive Council meeting held on Monday, 26th August 2024, at the Executive Council Chamber, New Governor’s Office, Ado Ekiti.
According to Olatunbosun, the equipment to be procured includes three 75HP tractors, disc ploughs, harrows, and ridgers. The machinery will be supplied by AGCOMS International Trading Limited and is expected to be delivered within four weeks. This investment is aimed at increasing farmers' access to modern farming tools, thereby improving their efficiency and output.
"The approval of this contract demonstrates the government's commitment to transforming the agricultural sector by providing local farmers with the necessary tools to thrive," Olatunbosun said. "This initiative is part of the Oyebanji administration’s continued drive to support farmers and boost food production in Ekiti State."
The procurement of farm machinery is expected to improve mechanization across the state’s agricultural landscape, making it easier for farmers to cultivate larger areas of land and reduce the labor-intensive nature of traditional farming methods. This, in turn, is anticipated to enhance the state's food security and drive economic growth through increased agricultural output.
In a related development, the Ekiti State Government has also approved the sum of ₦177,937,500.00 as part payment for the clearing of 325 hectares of land across five Local Government Areas as part of the Youths in Agriculture Initiative. This project is targeted at empowering young farmers from Ikere, Emure, Moba, Ido-Osi, and Ekiti West LGAs and boosting the state's overall agricultural productivity.
The land clearing initiative is designed to enable the planting of crops before the end of the farming season, ensuring that the beneficiaries of the initiative can make the most of the available land and resources. The state government had previously allocated ₦355,875,000.00 for the project in partnership with the affected Local Government Areas.
The Commissioner for Information noted that the land clearing project, which is being executed by David-Moore Developmental Concept Limited, is a key component of the government’s efforts to encourage more youth participation in agriculture. The Ministry of Local Government and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security are overseeing the project in collaboration with the affected LGAs to ensure its success.
“This initiative is a testament to the government’s unwavering resolve to support youth engagement in agriculture, which is vital for the sustainability and growth of the sector," Olatunbosun remarked. "We are committed to creating opportunities for our youth, particularly in agriculture, which remains a key sector for economic diversification in Ekiti State."
The land clearing is expected to be completed before the end of the current farming season, positioning the state’s agriculture sector for further growth and development. With these targeted initiatives, Governor Oyebanji’s administration aims to transform Ekiti into a leading agricultural hub, creating jobs and wealth for its residents.
The approval of these projects underscores the state government’s focus on revitalizing agriculture as a means of ensuring food security and providing economic empowerment for the people of Ekiti.
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