Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has expressed his full support for the Federal Government’s efforts to boost food production in Nigeria, pledging to collaborate on the implementation of livestock reforms.
Adeleke made the commitment during a meeting with the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee, led by Prof. Attahiru Jega, at his office in Osogbo. The Governor described the federal initiative as a well-intended reform, essential for enhancing food security across the country.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by Osun’s Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, Adeleke highlighted his administration’s readiness to align with the federal government’s goals for the agricultural sector.
“My administration is irrevocably committed to any initiative by the Federal Government that will put more food on the tables of the people of Nigeria,” Adeleke said. “While I welcome your team to Osun, we are not leaving any stone unturned to ensure the success of this initiative.”
Adeleke also outlined ongoing efforts by his administration to transform Osun into a key food-producing state. He cited the recent procurement of 31 tractors for farmers, aimed at enhancing food sufficiency. Additionally, the state is distributing seedlings and providing incentives to farmers through a structured implementation program managed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
“I will soon establish a strong committee of experts in agriculture to design a comprehensive plan for Osun to reform the livestock sector,” Adeleke added.
Earlier, Prof. Jega, Co-Chairman of the Presidential Livestock Initiative Reforms Committee and former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), said the committee was in Osun to promote the federal livestock initiative and its objectives. He urged Adeleke to consider establishing a Ministry of Livestock or a dedicated agency to oversee the successful implementation of the initiative in the state.
Jega emphasized that such efforts would help Osun fully benefit from the federal government’s livestock program, which aims to ensure the availability of livestock in large quantities across Nigeria.