Ogun State Governor Promotes Inter-Region Trade to Achieve Food Security
In a move aimed at boosting food security and sufficiency in the region, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced plans to promote inter-state and inter-region trade among southern states. Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the Federal University of Agriculture’s (FUNAAB) new governing council, the governor emphasized that with fertile land and human capacity, southern states have no reason not to trade among themselves.
“We should be able to attain food security and sufficiency within our region because we have the human capacity and the necessary arable land. There is nothing we do not have to ensure we achieve this objective,” said Governor Abiodun.
As part of the plan, the state government will establish Farmers’ Markets across the state to ensure food security. These markets will be located at strategic locations, including Asero in Abeokuta and Ogere along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway. Additionally, the state government plans to relocate the Kara cattle market from its current location to Ogere, providing a better atmosphere for cattle merchants.
Governor Abiodun highlighted the importance of agriculture in providing food security, creating employment opportunities, and generating revenue for the state. He stressed that the Federal University of Agriculture should take the lead in championing food security, as it was established for this purpose.
The governor also announced plans to collaborate with the institution in various ways, including cassava production. Furthermore, he pledged to reconstruct the Iyana-Camp to Alabata road, which has been damaged due to truck activities.
In a statement, the Pro-Chancellor of FUNAAB, Oba Abdul-Rasheed Ayorinde Olabomi, appealed to Governor Abiodun to assist the institution in reconstructing the damaged road. He also called for collaboration with the state government to achieve food security and develop the agricultural sector.
This initiative aims to boost food production and distribution in southern Nigeria, ensuring a stable and self-sufficient food system. By promoting inter-region trade, the state government hopes to create a stronger agricultural sector that can provide for the needs of its people.
