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Thursday, January 2, 2025

Ekiti Unveils Dry Season Agriculture Strategy, Empowers Farmers.

Ekiti Unveils Dry Season Agriculture Strategy, Empowers Farmers.
By Olamide Akinwumi. 



In a proactive move to mitigate mid-year price hikes and scarcity of tomatoes, peppers, and other vegetables, the Ekiti State Government has commenced the implementation of its dry season production strategies for 2025. This initiative, spearheaded by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Boluwade Ebenezer, seeks to revolutionize horticultural production in the state.

During a visit to the Erinfun Horticultural Production Hub in December 2024, Mr. Boluwade reviewed the government’s plans with key stakeholders. The hub, operated by Urban Farmers Ekiti, has been positioned as the nucleus of a statewide agricultural transformation aimed at creating jobs and ensuring food security.

In line with this vision, several interventions have already begun to materialize. These include:

1. Enhanced Water Supply: Two additional solar-powered pumps are set to be installed, ensuring water is reticulated across the 20 hectares of cleared farmland. The contractor has been mobilized, with installation work starting immediately.


2. Improved Irrigation Infrastructure: Drip irrigation tapes have been supplied to complement existing systems, enabling wider coverage and efficient water use.


3. Seed Distribution: Discussions are underway with East West Seeds Ltd to provide improved tomato and pepper seeds at subsidized rates for youths and legacy farmers in Erinfun, Aramoko/Erio, and other horticultural hubs.


4. Crop Protection Solutions: The state is finalizing arrangements with a crop protection company to supply environmentally friendly agrochemicals that enhance yield without compromising ecological balance.


5. Market Access: Ilu Eye Trading Company will sign an offtake agreement with farmers, ensuring their produce reaches consumers at fair prices, thereby curbing middlemen exploitation and price inflation.



Speaking during the visit, Mr. Boluwade expressed his gratitude to Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for approving these interventions, which will benefit over 500 youths and legacy farmers. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to positioning agriculture as a profitable business and a tool for job creation.

“Our focus is on accelerated food production and wealth creation for our teeming youths,” the Commissioner stated. “With these steps, we are not just addressing the challenges of scarcity and high prices but also laying a foundation for sustainable agricultural practices in Ekiti State.”

The recently desilted dam at the Erinfun hub, coupled with the enhanced infrastructure, is expected to support year-round vegetable production. The state government’s partnership with private-sector players and stakeholders has been lauded as a model for agricultural development.

As the dry season progresses, stakeholders and residents are urged to monitor the strides being made in Ekiti’s agricultural sector. With these strategic interventions, the state is poised to achieve its vision of becoming a leading hub for food production in Nigeria.

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