FG urges Kwara communities to release land for federal agricultural projects

The National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) has called on traditional rulers and local government chairmen in Kwara state to release arable land for federal agricultural initiatives aimed at boosting food security and economic growth.

Speaking during a New Year celebration at Oke-Onigbin community in the Isin local government area of Kwara state, the executive secretary/CEO of the NALDA, Engineer Cornelius Oluwasegun Adebayo, highlighted efforts of a rural community, Ora, which recently allocated 5,000 hectares of land for federal agricultural projects, urging others to follow suit.

“We are working to develop vast lands and facilitate farming for local communities. These farm settlements will include health centres, schools and financial inclusion hubs, ensuring socio-economic growth. The displaced farmers, who are among the most experienced, will be resettled to continue farming and earn decent incomes”, Adebayo said.

He also said that the federal government’s mechanization drive, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, plans to establish farm settlements, provide mechanized tools and rehabilitate displaced farmers to revitalize the agricultural sector.

Adebayo appealed to traditional rulers and communities to support the initiative, saying that, “Holding on to land, without utilizing it, benefits no one. By collaborating with the government and investors, we can uplift our communities economically”.

At the event, prominent leaders in Kwara state lauded the dederal government’s efforts to secure land for agricultural purposes. Chairman of the Isin local government area, Jolayemi Olarewaju, praised the initiative as a proactive measure to combat food scarcity.

“The plan of the federal government asking for land for agricultural purposes is a very good one. If care is not taken, this year may bring challenges of food scarcity. However, with this initiative, I believe we can survive. Some kinsmen in my local government have suggested exploring dry farming systems, and with the Federal Government’s support, we can overcome future food scarcity issues”, he said.

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Also, chairman of Offa local government area, Hon. Suleiman Olatunji, said that 1,000 hectares of land had been allocated for agricultural projects in the area, emphasizing the benefits for youth employment and infrastructure development.

“We thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for this good initiative. It will create employment opportunities for youths, ensure mass food production and enhance food security. The improved rural roads linking farmers to urban markets also demonstrate the federal government’s commitment to agriculture”, Olatunji noted.

The Onigbin of Oke-Onigbin, Oba Salaudeen Tayo, also commended the federal government for providing agricultural inputs such as fertilizers and herbicides, while urging for expanded support to farmers.

“We have abundant land in Kwara South district suitable for agriculture. The federal government, through its representatives, is doing well, but we urge them to do more in supporting farmers”, the monarch said.

The event also paid tribute to the contributions of former Kwara state governor and Minister, Chief C.O. Adebayo, who initiated annual Kwara South unity meetings to foster collaboration among leaders, stakeholders and community members for regional development.

Stakeholders praised the federal government’s agricultural initiatives as a transformative plan to ensure food security and economic prosperity, calling for sustained support and collaboration to achieve these goals.

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