2024 World Food Day: Makinde Reaffirm Commitments to Boost Food Security.
Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has declared that his government will not relent in its efforts to boost food security and ensure the safe functioning of the food supply chain in the state.
He maintained that the government has taken several steps to promote agriculture and food security, including providing support to thousands of smallholder farmers and farmers’ associations.
The governor made this statement on Wednesday at an event commemorating the 2024 World Food Day, held at the Parliament Building, Oyo State House of Assembly, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.
Governor Makinde, who spoke through the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, promised that his administration would continue to create an enabling environment for agricultural businesses to thrive, thereby increasing food security and safe functioning of the food supply chain.
He added that the government would also continue to support research-driven agricultural businesses to promote economic development and growth in the sector.
The governor called on all stakeholders in the agriculture and food sector to complement the government’s efforts in promoting sustainable agriculture, reducing food waste, and ensuring equitable access to nutritious food to achieve a better and more sustainable food future in Oyo State.
Noting the importance of the fundamental human right to food, the governor pledged more support to farmers across the state, saying he would ensure that the theme for this year’s World Food Day, “Right to Food for a Better Life and Better Future,” becomes a reality.
He emphasized that the theme serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to address food insecurity and malnutrition, urging all stakeholders to adopt climate-resilient practices and innovative technologies to invest in sustainable agri-food systems.
Presenting his paper on this year’s theme, Professor Samuel Olakojo from the Institute of Agriculture, Research and Training (IAR&T), highlighted the necessity of access to food for every individual, stressing that its abundance is a fundamental right for survival.
He urged the government to implement policies addressing climate change, insecurity, and farmer support, such as road infrastructure, credit facilities, periodic monitoring, and minimizing perishable produce waste.
Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, Honourable Peter Ojedokun, representing Ibarapa North/Central, called on farmers to intensify efforts in producing quality farm produce to combat poverty, hunger, and promote healthy diets.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Christianah Abioye, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, noted that World Food Day presented an opportunity to appreciate Governor Makinde’s support to farmers, which has aided food sufficiency and provided sustainable solutions to food security and poverty issues
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