THE Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, has described agriculture as the surest way out of the present economic recession facing the country.
He disclosed this while briefing newsmen at his Ake Palace, on the activities lined up for the 31st Lisabi Day Festival, holding from Monday 27th to Sunday 4th of March.
The monarch speaking on the theme of the festival “Self- reliance through agriculture for a secured tomorrow” said huge investment in agriculture by all and sundry would ensure food security in the country.
The annual festival is sponsored by giant telecommunication company, Globacom.
Oba Gbadebo noted that investment in agriculture would reduce unemployment among the youths, adding that agriculture would go a long way in bridging the foreign exchange deficit, which has weakened the country’s currency.
He explained that the annual event would afford the people of Egbaland to explore various opportunities in agriculture, with a view of stimulating interest of the people, especially the youth in agriculture.
He described Lisabi as an energetic warrior and a hero who would continually be remembered for his dynamic feats in the quest for Egba freedom.
Alake noted that there were many uncultivated arable lands in Egbaland which could be used for agriculture as part of efforts to achieve food security in the land.
Some of the activities lined up for the festival are : a procession to the Lisabi forest, a journey of about 10km on the outskirts of the town; visit to and traditional prayers on top of the Olumo Rock and farmers’ empowerment programme.
Others are debate, musical fiesta quiz and football competitions.
The National Commercial Coordinator of Globacom, Mr. Yomi Ogunbamowo said the annual Lisabi Festival had become a veritable platform to brainstorm on how to further develop Egbaland.
He said the company would continue to sponsor the festival.