We”ll create enabling environment for businesses in agriculture to thrive, Makinde assures

The Oyo State Government says it will create the enabling environment for agriculture businesses to thrive in order to enhance food security and safe functioning of the food supply chain.

Gov. Seyi Makinde shave the assurance on Wednesday in Ibadan during the commemoration of the 2024 World Food Day.

It was reported that the theme for the 2024 World Food Day is “Right to Food for a Better Life and Better Future”.

The governor, represented at the event by the state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Olasunkanmi Olaleye, said his administration would not relent in its efforts to boost food security.

He added that his government would also continue to support research-driven agriculture businesses for the promotion of economic development and growth in the sector.

Makinde equally stated that his administration had taken several steps to promote agriculture and ensure food security in the state.

“These include providing support to thousands of small-holder farmers and farmers’ associations, through the provision of farm inputs, seedlings, access to soft loans, among others,” he said.

The governor pledged more support for farmers across the state, saying he would ensure the theme for the 2024 World Food Day became a reality.

“The theme, ‘Right to Food for a Better Life and Better Future’, serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to address issues of food insecurity and malnutrition,” he said.

Makinde urged all stakeholders in the agriculture and food sector to complement his government’s efforts in promoting sustainable agriculture.

He also urged all stakeholders in the agri-business, food production and supply sector to adopt climate-resilient practices and innovative technologies to invest in sustainable “agri-food system”.

Also, Mr Peter Ojedokun, Chairman of the State House of Assembly’s Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, urged all farmers to intensify efforts in ensuring quality farm produce for consumers.

Ojedokun, who is the lawmaker representing Ibarapa North/Central State Constituency, said quality farm produce would help to subdue poverty, hunger and promote healthy diets in the state.