By Iyabo Adebisi
To boost agricultural productivity and ensure food security, the Oyo State Government has commenced a four-day training programme for 140 youth farmers on tractor driving and mechanized farming practices.
The initiative, launched across the state’s three agricultural zones, Ibadan/Ibarapa, Oyo/Ogbomoso, and Oke-Ogun simultaneously is being implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Declaring the programme open for Ibadan/Ibarapa at the Ido local government, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Olasunkanmi Olaleye, emphasized the present government’s commitment to agricultural transformation, youth empowerment, and rural development.
He noted that the training was designed to equip participants from both rural and urban areas with practical knowledge in tractor operations, safety protocols, preventive maintenance, and mechanized farming techniques.
Mr Olaleye urged the participants to approach the programme with dedication and professionalism, stressing that the future of food production in the state depends on a skilled and motivated agricultural workforce.
Some of the participants in an interview expressed gratitude to the state government for the opportunity, promising to apply the skills learnt to improve their farming practices and contribute meaningfully to the agricultural sector.
The training is part of the government’s broader efforts under the Sustainable Actions for Economic Recovery (SAfER) initiative, which focuses on boosting productivity, reducing unemployment, and ensuring long-term food security through modern agriculture.
