…as Ekiti Leads in Cassava Production
The vision of Governor Biodun Oyebanji to make agriculture the backbone of Ekiti’s economy is steadily yielding results, with young farmers now recording impressive harvests under the State Government’s agribusiness initiatives.
Hon. Ebenezer Boluwade, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, disclosed this after receiving the first pepper harvest video from a youth farmer operating under the Ekiti Urban Farming initiative at the Erifun Farm Hub.
Boluwade explained that the Oyebanji-led administration deliberately invested in facilities at the hub to make farming more attractive and rewarding for youths.
“At Erifun Horticultural Hub, we have put in place the necessary infrastructure to support all-year farming. These include a desilted dam, a complete pipe reticulation system, drip irrigation layout, a solar-powered pumping machine, and conducive accommodation for farm operators. This is how we are making farming attractive and ‘sexy’ for our youths,” he said.
The Commissioner emphasized that Governor Oyebanji’s agribusiness drive is not only enhancing food security but also creating sustainable jobs and wealth for the people.
Highlighting cassava as one of the State’s major agricultural strengths, Boluwade noted that Ekiti plays a significant role in Nigeria’s global leadership in cassava production.
“According to FAOSTAT (2022), global cassava production was about 330 million tonnes, and Nigeria alone accounted for 18% of this, making us the largest cassava producer in the world. Here in Ekiti, cassava is more than food on our tables; it is jobs for our farmers and income for families across our communities. When our farmers thrive, everyone eats better,” he added.
He assured that the Oyebanji administration will continue to prioritize agribusiness by supporting farmers with modern infrastructure, improved seedlings, and policies that drive productivity across the state.
“These milestones are proof of Governor Oyebanji’s absolute commitment to repositioning agriculture as a source of pride, prosperity, and growth for Ekiti people,” the Commissioner stressed.
