Godsent Ogbebor
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has announced the establishment of storage facilities across the state to prevent food shortages similar to what was experienced last year.
The governor, speaking in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday during an inspection of one of the facilities, said the initiative aims to purchase farm produce from farmers during the harvest season and store them for release during periods of scarcity.
“Our immediate focus is to address food shortages, reduce post-harvest losses, and ensure food sufficiency all year round across the state,” Oyebanji stated.
The governor noted that the move aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s directive for state governors to prioritize food security as a critical step toward combating hunger nationwide.
He revealed that over 6,000 hectares of farmland were cultivated in 2024, but the absence of proper storage facilities had posed challenges in preserving the produce. “These storage facilities will help regulate food prices and ensure availability during times of scarcity,” he added.
Oyebanji also highlighted the role of young farmers under the “Bring Back Youth in Agriculture” program in achieving the state’s food security goals. A significant portion of the harvested crops was purchased from these young farmers, he said.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Ebenezer Boluwade, emphasized that the initiative not only addresses hunger but also provides opportunities for youth engagement in agriculture.
Boluwade added, “This effort will ensure a steady food supply throughout the year. Farmers, especially the youth, can now produce more, knowing their harvests will not go to waste, as the government is ready to buy from them.”
