SAfER: 2,537 farmers benefit as Oyo distributes inputs
By Adewale Owoade
The Oyo State Government has commenced the fourth phase of the distribution of agricultural inputs to 2,537 farmers across the state.
Cassava stems, hybrid maize seedlings, herbicides and knap-sack sprayers were some of the inputs distributed.
Oyo State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Olasunkanmi Olaleye, inaugurated the exercise in Eruwa, Ibarapa East Local Government.
He said inputs were simultaneously distributed at Igboora, Ibarapa Central Local Government and Ayete in Ibarapa North Local Government.
Olaleye, who doubles as the Chairman, SAfER Food Security Sub-Committee, said the exercise was to ensure that Oyo State has abundant food supply for its people.
“Today, we are commencing the fourth phase of Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER), food security sub-sector.
“We are distributing cassava stems, special maize seeds that can germinate faster, we are also giving out knap-sack sprayers to farmers across Oyo State.
“In addition to that, we are also giving them herbicides to protect their crops against invasion of insects and all that.
“So, in this fourth phase, not less than 2,537 farmers will benefit.
“In the next ten days as well, subsidy on the use of tractors will commence, so if you cultivate five acres, the government will pay for two and a half acres.
“If you cultivate ten hectares, the government will pay for five acres for you.
“So, the whole essence is to ensure that Oyo State has abundant and sufficient food supply to bring down the prices of foodstuffs,” Olaleye stated.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr Rafiu Saheed, thanked the state government for the farm inputs support, saying the materials will have significant effect on their farms and produce.
He, therefore, urged other beneficiaries not to sell the farm inputs but make judicious use of them to complement the efforts of government. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
