The Ogun State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Bolu Owotomo, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to increasing food production and transforming the state into Nigeria’s food hub.
During the graduation ceremony of 1,000 trainees from the Soilless Farm Laboratory in Awowo, Owotomo urged young people to channel their energy into productive agricultural ventures, emphasizing the crucial role of modern technology in achieving food security.
Owotomo stated, “As youth bubbling with so much energy, you should go out there and use the technological know-how acquired here during your training to boost food production. You have many years ahead of you; put into practice all that you have been taught here, and you will not only help create employment opportunities for others but also make a significant difference in our country’s journey towards achieving food sufficiency.”
The government has pledged support for the 63 indigenous participants, providing land, seedlings, and linking them to financial organizations.
Owotomo added, “Today, we have 63 graduates who are indigenes of our dear state. The government will support them just as we have done for the previous cohort, who have now been organised into a company. We will provide them with land and seedlings and continue to build their capacity while connecting them to financial opportunities, such as grants and other support.”
The Soilless Farm, backed by the MasterCard Foundation, trains 1,000 individuals quarterly in soilless farming technology.
According to Grace Enoidem, Head of Corporate Communication, this initiative aims to produce more soilless farmers who will train others, contributing to food sufficiency in Nigeria and Africa.
Aliu Saliu, a beneficiary of the training, described it as transformative, highlighting its impact on improving agricultural practices through technology.
This effort aligns with Nigeria’s goal to increase agricultural productivity and food security, addressing challenges such as poor land tenure, low irrigation, and climate change.