Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has declared that the state government’s investment in agriculture is a crucial step towards poverty eradication.
The governor made this statement while launching this year’s wet season farming in Gergu, Ajaokuta local government area.
According to a statement by his spokesperson Ismail Isah, Governor Ododo presented over 100 tractors to assist approximately 10,000 farmers across the state’s 21 local government areas.
However, the statement highlighted that 75 percent of the farmland cleared for cultivation this season will be allocated to youth and women farmers.
Governor Ododo emphasized that over 90 percent of Kogi State’s land is arable and pledged to position the state as a leader in agricultural production, contributing to Nigeria’s economic development.
He stated, “Across the 21 local government areas of the state, we are opening farmlands and preparing more land for cultivating crops like rice, maize, cassava, yam, and other staple food crops and grains.”
He further added that the government has procured farm implements to support full-scale agricultural mechanization, aligning with their agenda to ensure food security.
“Our youth are beginning to embrace agriculture as a credible source of wealth creation, and our women in agriculture are already active in the field, believing in our commitment to transforming the agricultural sector in the state.”
Governor Ododo also called on wealthy individuals from Kogi, both at home and abroad, to explore opportunities in the agro-industry.
While noting that the state government has invested over 7 billion Naira in farm implements, including over 100 tractors, to cultivate 7,324 hectares by about 10,000 farmers in this farming season.