The Oyo state government has urged youths in the state to engage in agriculture, saying it is time to leverage on its partnership with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye made this call over the weekend at the Oyo State -IITA Youth Agribusiness Park Centre, Awe during a familiarization visit.
He said most of the facilities provided by government to encourage agriculture are relatively under-utilised, as most young people find agriculture practice unattractive.
The Commissioner added that the collaboration with IITA will enhance new innovations in agricultural sector of the State, boost Nigeria’s economy and ensure food security.
Speaking further, Barr. Olaleye said that the project will engage and equip youths and make them self employed farmers.
Olasunkanmi further said that the project is committed to revamping the agricultural sector in the state in collaboration with IITA.
Barrister Olasunkanmi said the present government in the state has put some opportunities in place to train youths on the new innovation in agriculture, saying the old method of farming is obsolete.
The Commissioner explained that modern agriculture requires trainings, promising that the government would intensify efforts in creating awareness to the general public on the need to embrace the innovative idea.
According to him, the Oyo State- IITA Youths Agribusiness Park Centre, Awe was created to train and retrain young adults on the current innovation in agriculture.
He therefore commended IITA, noting that the Institute brought the new innovation on agriculture nearer to the people.
Olasunkanmi said Agriculture is essential and it plays a vital role in the development of our country. This is the way to go if we are serious and genuine in the quest to stimulate our economy.
The Commissioner alongside the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Christianah Abioye and the Management Staff equally visited meat shop at Bodija International Market and the ongoing construction of Silo, at Awe respectively.
