THE Ondo State Government has taken a bold step towards becoming an agricultural hub by partnering with the ZNT AgriHub in association with the Ondo State Agricultural Commodity Association (OSACA) and other relevant stakeholders in agricultural business on mechanised systems of farming.
The partnership aims to align with the Governor Aiyedatiwa-led administration’s vision of ensuring food security and providing job opportunities for the youth
The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Agriculture and Agribusiness, Mr Wemimo Akinsola disclosed this while playing host to the management team of ZNT AgiHub in his office, Alagbaka Akure.
Mr Akinsola who stated that the project is to develop an agriculture template of cultivating more than two thousand hectares of land in each Senatorial Districts of the state in line with the executive order of Mr Governor and bring agricultural business to the people.
“This initiative marks a significant stride in actualising the state government’s goal of agricultural sustainability and economic development.”
“The collaboration with ZNT AgriHub, OSACA and other relevant stakeholders is expected to play a significant role in transforming the state into a food-secure while empowering farmers with advanced skills and resources” he stated.
The Senior Special Assistant to Mr Governor, who disclosed that the government has directed that community release land for the projects would be well compensated, he therefore solicited for more cooperation from the people of the state for the success of the programme.
In her remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of ZNT AgriHub, who is also the team leader, Zainab Suleiman emphasised the readiness to contribute to the state’s agricultural revolution through technical expertise, research, and innovation while highlighting the company’s capacity to assist local farmers in mechanized farming, which is vital for increasing productivity and achieving sustainable food supply in the state.
Mrs Sulaima explained that the company used to collaborate with farmers to ensure a high return on investment (ROI) for agricultural businesses by leveraging proven models and cutting-edge technology and to empower farmers, boost productivity, and drive sustainable agricultural growth which is in line with what the present administration is doing in the State.
She, therefore, emphasised the importance of the partnership in addressing challenges faced by farmers and enhancing technical know-how through training programmes.
In his own remarks, the Chairman of OSACA, Chief Adejo Abiodun noted the projects will not only empower the farmers across the state but will also help to boost food production.
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