The Ogun State Government, led by Prince Dapo Abiodun, has distributed 2.5 million naira and parcels of land to 25 state residents who completed the Enterprise for Youth in Agriculture (EIYA) program. This initiative, organized by Soiless Farm Lab in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, aims to bolster their agricultural ventures.
Speaking at the presentation and graduation ceremony in Awowo, Ewekoro Local Government Area, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Bolu Owotomo, highlighted that the support is intended to help the graduates apply the skills they acquired to advance the agricultural sector.
In a statement from the Ministry’s Press Officer, Mr. Gbenga Moronfolu, Hon. Owotomo noted that the training reassures that the older farming population can be effectively replaced by young, skilled farmers, thereby enhancing the agricultural value chain.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Samuel Adeogun, the Commissioner emphasized that tapping into the potential and innovation of Nigeria’s young farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs will rejuvenate and modernize the sector.
He affirmed that the state government remains committed to transforming agriculture by encouraging youth participation and creating an enabling environment through various intervention programs.
Farmer Samson Ogbole, team lead at Soiless Farm Lab, remarked that the initiative seeks to draw young people into agriculture by providing modern training essential for success.
“We taught them how to build a greenhouse from scratch, covering basic bricklaying, plumbing, electrical work, farm management, financial management, budgeting, and human management,” he stated.
Participants supported by the state government, including Olayinka Olaoluwa, Adebimpe Odebiyi, and Taiwo Osilesi, praised the program, expressing their enthusiasm to apply their new skills for the state’s benefit. They thanked the government for the land and cash, committing to use them effectively to ensure food security in the state and the country.
Source: Newsacross.com
