●As third phase of distribution of agricultural inputs begins
The Oyo State Government has started the third phase of distributing agricultural inputs to farmers in the state. As part of the initiative, 1,000 pig farmers will receive two bags of 50kg feeds and two bottles of disinfectant.
Additionally, 120,000 cattle will be vaccinated against anthrax and CBPP, while another 250,000 cattle, goats, and sheep will also be vaccinated. Sheep and goat farmers will receive two bags of 50kg wheat offal each.
This effort is part of the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER) initiative introduced by Governor Seyi Makinde to support small and medium-scale farmers and ease the economic hardship caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, emphasized the importance of the SAfER initiative in reducing the cost of food in Oyo State. The distribution of agricultural inputs will continue across all local government areas in the state, including the provision of seeds, cassava cottons, herbicides, and knapsack sprayers to crop farmers.
The commissioner also highlighted other measures taken by the state government to support farmers, including a N600 million subsidy on land clearing, a waiver on tax payment for transporting farm produce within the state, and a 50% payment subsidy on tractors used on farmlands. The government has also provided a N1 billion loan to farmers.
Local officials and representatives expressed gratitude for the SAfER initiative and urged farmers to reflect the support they receive from the government in the pricing of food products. The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mrs. Christianah Abioye, commended the state government for its continuous support to farmers, while the chairman of the Piggery Farmers Association, Mr. Tope Oye-Alamu, expressed appreciation for the inclusion of pig farmers in the initiative.
Beneficiaries, such as pig farmer Mrs. Mary Adebayo, expressed gratitude to the state government for its support.
