We’re committed to food security – Aiyedatiwa

Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State says his administration is committed to food security and welfare of the people of the state.

Aiyedatiwa stated this during the flag-off of the second phase of distribution of palliatives and farm implements to beneficiaries in Akure on Thursday.

The governor said that the initiative was in line with the government’s plan and commitment to ensure food security and stabilty in the state, especially in view of the challenges occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy.

Aiyedatiwa appealed to traders and other service providers to shun exploitative practices, adding that there was a need for empathy and compassion in business dealings.

He said that the government had constituted an Agriculture and Food Security Committee in combating food insecurity, lauding their previous successes and ongoing efforts.

The governor said that the second phase of the palliatives entails distribution of 24,000 bags of rice, 14,040 bags of maize, 3,440 bags of garri.

“Others are over 170 farm tricycles, tillers and Canoes – implements, aimed at benefiting various groups across the state,” he said.

The governor assured the people of more welfare packages and stressed the need to leverage on local resources for agricultural production.

“Our administration is undoubtedly committed to regular interventions and activities towards alleviating sufferings, hunger and ensuring massive availability of food supply in the state.

“I call on us all to refrain from shylock tendencies to exploit others, not minding the implication of such actions on the economy and people’s welfare.

“Specifically, I call on our Iya-lojas, Baba-lajes, farmers associations, transport management bodies and all other production and trade organisations in Ondo State and Nigeria at large.

“They should encourage their members, to start bringing down prices of food, goods and services,” he said.

Aiyedatiwa also thanked all agricultural stakeholders for their support and expressed confidence that collaborative efforts would improve Ondo State and Nigeria.

Earlier, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Mr Olayato Aribo, said that food security was one of the primary responsibilities of governments.

He urged beneficiaries to use the distributed items judiciously, adding that the distribution would continue and reach all local governments, farmers, and individuals.