FEDERAL GOVERNMENT RATES OGSG HIGH ON AGRIC VALUE CHAIN IMPLEMENTATION

FEDERAL  GOVERNMENT RATES  OGSG  HIGH ON AGRIC VALUE CHAIN IMPLEMENTATION

          The Federal Government assisted International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) in Ogun State has been described as a model, as its activities have impacted on small holder farmers.

    

      Leader of the delegation from Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Benjamin Egem-Odey who stated this during an assessment of the State's VCDP activities at the Ministry of Agriculture Conference Centre, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, said that it was necessary to ascertain the output level of the programme, commending the State for its exemplary implementation.

    

      "We had to spend more time detailing the impact of the positive results we saw on ground, even in our independent investigations. There’s obvious increase in yield, Ogun State has demonstrated proficiency, not just in farming but also in enhancing income for farmers", he added.

          In his contribution, Consultant, IFAD, Maiwada Zubairu, said the team was excited about the level of up-scaling, noting that farmers’ yield increased significantly from eight million tons to 25 million tons.

          "Our experience in Ogun State is very encouraging. I wish the public sector will follow the model. The agricultural strides witnessed here is an evidence of putting a round peg in a round hole, a good example of support from the government. We are particularly happy with the high rate of youth involvement, consistent monitoring which had resulted in increased productivity", he said.

          Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Adeola Odedina, revealed that the landmark achievement of Ogun State VCDP was due to enabling environment created by the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration’s commitment to Agriculture, pledging government’s continued support towards achieving the set goals and objectives.

          In their separate remarks, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Dotun Sorunke and Project Manager, VCDP, Samuel Adeogun said the State had been supporting farmers with training, technology and innovations, which resulted in poverty reduction, job creation, improved standard of living and youth empowerment among others.