The councillor representing Ward 4, Saki, Oyo State and the convener of The Hope Never Dies, Hon. Salaudeen Kabeer Adebayo, has empowered 120 youths in a week-long capacity-building and empowerment programme.
Over the course of six days, the youth were trained in various agricultural skills, including fish farming, cassava farming, yam farming, maize farming, and beekeeping and provided with tools such as planters and beekeeping coats.
The event which had the theme “Cultivating Prosperity: Unlocking Nigeria’s Agricultural Potential,” attracted a blend of community leaders, government officials, and industry experts, highlighting the town’s commitment to agricultural development.
“This programme is a reflection of our commitment to solving Nigeria’s food crisis and promoting youth-led initiatives in agriculture,” said Hon Adebayo said at an event marking the end of the programme.
He urged participants to apply their new skills to drive economic growth and sustainability.
Speaking at the event, Hon Beulah Adeoye, who was represented by Afeez Omoniyi, said: “As the Hope Never Dies 2025 Programme draws to a close, it leaves behind a legacy of empowerment and hope. With 120 trained youths ready to contribute to the agricultural sector, the initiative has laid a strong foundation for addressing food security and fostering economic growth in Saki and beyond.
“The programme’s success underscores the potential of collaborative efforts between the government, traditional leaders, and the community in achieving sustainable development.”
The CEO of PrinceDee Agroconsult, Dr Lawal Adebowale, who was the lead trainer and keynote speaker, expressed satisfaction with the participants’ enthusiasm and dedication.
He emphasised the importance of innovation in agriculture, urging the youth to remain committed to the sector.
In his address, former Minority Leader and Chairman of the Oyo State Pension Board, Hon. Rafiu Adekunle, who chaired the occasion, commended the initiative and pledged to support agricultural development in Saki.
He announced plans to facilitate the establishment of a honey processing factory and a shea butter company in the town to enhance value addition in the agricultural sector.
Other speakers, including Alhaji Kilani Omofoyewa and Dr Y.Y Muslim, praised the initiative and pledged ongoing support for youth-driven agricultural development.
The convener, Hon Adebayo, highlighted that the programme was conducted without any political sponsorship, emphasising its goal of genuine community development.
He extended appreciation to the training team, including Fatiu Hamzat, Busari Uthman, Daranijo Habeeb, Busari Islamiyat, and Waheed Abdulbasit, for their tireless efforts in ensuring the programme’s success.
Dignitaries at the event included Board Member of the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), Hon. Mudasiru Eruobodo; former Director of The Polytechnic Ibadan, Saki Campus, Dr. Y.Y. Muslim; Baale Ilua of Sakiland, Alhaji Kilani Omofoyewa; Hon. Gbenga Akinola, represented by his Chief of Staff, Seun Oladeji; Majority Leader of the Saki West Legislative House, Salaudeen Soliu; President of Saki Youth Organisation, Oladejo Kazeem; and President of the Council of Oke-Ogun Visionary Leaders, Sekoni Afeez.
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