There is no time better than now to intensity interventions in agriculture to guarantee food security for the nation.
Wife of Osun State Governor and the President, IleriOluwa Development Initiative (IOD-Initiative), Mrs. Kafayat Oyetola stated this on Tuesday at the presentation ceremony of the 2nd Phase of Women in Agriculture Scheme, a pet project of the (IOD-Initiative).
The president who expressed delight for reaching out again to women who engage in Agriculture with the vital and necessary supports that they need, noted that the current market price of foodstuffs in Nigeria calls for agricultural revolution to increase food supply.
Speaking on the initiative, Mrs. Oyetola said, “The Program was designed to assist low-income female farmers periodically with necessary inputs that will enhance their productivity in the farms, increase their yields and ensure food security for their families.
“I thank the administration of our leader, Governor Adegboyega Oyetola for the intensive efforts being devoted to improving agricultural productions on all fronts in this State. It is also gladdening that more and more women are embracing farming, both as vocation and profession.”
“As many of you might have known, my only engagement, even now as the First Lady, is farming. I am one of you and this is why women-in-agriculture scheme is one of the key programs of our Foundation, the Ilerioluwa Development Initiative (IOD-Initiative).
“My fellow female farmers, I welcome and thank you for the steadfastness you have continued to put into the farming business despite the challenges. Your efforts have continued to contribute to the food chain in this State.
“Our intervention here today is to serve as catalyst for select women who are in great needs in their farming activities. The first phase comprised of assistance with vegetable seeds, training on effective handling of the seeds and a revolving loans program for farm preparation.
“This second phase has expanded envelope of inputs which include vegetables, cassava stems, cashew plants, cocoa, chicks and poultry feeds. Also, the training module has been retained.
“The loan module has been discontinued because of the poor performance in terms of repayment. We hope to repackage it and refloat it soonest. I urge our beneficiaries to continue to take optimum advantage of this intervention.”
