Enhancing Agricultural Productivity in Ogun State: Wet and Dry Season Farming Initiative

Enhancing Agricultural Productivity in Ogun State: Wet and Dry Season Farming Initiative

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced an ambitious plan to produce sufficient food for local consumption and export through wet and dry season farming. This initiative is part of the state’s broader strategy to enhance its agricultural sector, which is crucial for revenue generation, employment, food security, and poverty alleviation.

The governor made this declaration during the inauguration of a 13-member State Working Committee (SWC) of the National Agricultural Growth Scheme – AGRO POCKET, at the Governor’s Office in Abeokuta. The committee's mandate includes ensuring efficient program implementation and enhancing agricultural productivity across the state.

Governor Abiodun emphasized that achieving self-sufficiency in food production is a short-term goal, with long-term aspirations of producing enough food for other states and for export. This initiative aligns with Ogun State's commitment to developing all economic sectors, particularly agriculture.

Agriculture is a cornerstone of Ogun State’s economy, offering significant potential for growth. The sector not only supports food security but also plays a vital role in employment and revenue generation. The wet and dry season farming initiative aims to maximize these benefits by ensuring continuous agricultural production throughout the year.

The introduction of wet and dry season farming represents a significant shift in agricultural practices. By enabling farmers to cultivate crops year-round, this approach mitigates the risks associated with seasonal farming, thereby increasing crop yields and ensuring a stable food supply.

Drawing from successful case studies in other regions, Ogun State is adopting best practices to enhance its agricultural output. The state’s collaboration with the federal government and the African Development Bank (AfDB) under the Policy-Based Operation (PBO) framework is central to this effort, providing the necessary financial and technical support.

A notable outcome of similar initiatives was observed in the 2023 pilot scheme across 15 states, which resulted in a remarkable increase in wheat yield. This success story highlights the potential impact of the National Agricultural Growth Scheme, supported by AfDB, on Ogun State’s agricultural productivity.

The SWC, chaired by Governor Abiodun with Commissioner for Agriculture Hon. Bolu Owotomo as Vice Chairman, is tasked with overseeing the program’s implementation. The committee’s responsibilities include strategic planning, monitoring, and ensuring transparency and accountability in the scheme’s execution.

The members of the SWC include representatives from various sectors. One notable member, the Olota of Ota, Oba Abdulkabir Obalanlege, praised the initiative, saying it has the potential to reduce inflation and increase food production in the country. He also commended Governor Abiodun for his efforts in driving agricultural progress in Ogun State.

The scheme will focus on key crops such as cassava, maize, and rice, supporting 2,400 smallholder farmers on 1,200 hectares of land. Farmers will bear 25% of input costs, with the federal government covering the remaining 75% during the wet season of 2024. This subsidy model is designed to boost productivity and income for smallholder farmers.

Technological advancements and innovative practices are integral to this initiative. The establishment of the Soilless Farm Laboratory in Ewekoro Local Government Area exemplifies Ogun State’s commitment to modernizing agriculture and attracting agripreneurs.

Local government committees will replicate the SWC’s efforts at the grassroots level, ensuring that the initiative reflects the unique needs of different communities. This decentralized approach promotes community engagement and local ownership of the program.

Collaboration with private investors and international partners further strengthens the initiative. The state’s policy on agriculture has already attracted significant investments, exemplified by the repositioning of the Odeda Farm Settlement through foreign partnerships.

State and federal agricultural policies provide a supportive framework for this initiative. These policies, coupled with the governor’s proactive measures, ensure that Ogun State is well-positioned to achieve its agricultural goals.

Sustainability is a key consideration in the program’s design. By adopting practices that ensure long-term viability, the initiative aims to create a resilient agricultural sector capable of withstanding future challenges.

Despite its potential, the initiative faces several challenges, including ensuring adequate funding, managing environmental impacts, and maintaining farmer participation. Addressing these challenges will be critical to the program’s success.

Governor Abiodun’s administration is committed to providing the necessary relief and support to the people, especially during challenging times. The initiative’s success will depend on continuous assessment, stakeholder engagement, and adaptive strategies.

In conclusion, the wet and dry season farming initiative represents a transformative approach to agriculture in Ogun State. By leveraging financial partnerships, technological innovations, and community involvement, the state aims to achieve self-sufficiency in food production and enhance its agricultural sector.

The initiative’s success will not only secure food supplies but also drive economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve livelihoods across Ogun State. The collaborative efforts of the state government, federal partners, and local communities are crucial in realizing these ambitious goals.

*Tayo Mabeweje*  

*Media Consultant to the Executive Governor of Ogun State*